Investing in the future of Australia’s biosecurity system

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Image: Biosecurity innovation – aerial drone and a scientist in a lab

Article written by Biosecurity Innovation team, Biosecurity Implementation branch

The Australian Government is investing in new cutting edge technologies and approaches to enhance Australia’s Biosecurity System, protecting Australia into the future. Through a new $25.2 million Biosecurity Innovation Program the department’s innovation teams will investigate the benefits of emerging technologies to meet the challenges of an ever changing global environment.

‘This investment is part of the Australian Government’s comprehensive plan to keep Australia's industries and environment safe from invading biosecurity threats,’ Minister Littleproud said.

The Program aims to benefit the agriculture sector, the environment, tourism, the Australian economy and way of life by helping to ensure Australia remains free from exotic pests, diseases and weeds.

With the number of passengers, shipping and containerised cargo arrivals set to significantly increase (double) by 2025, investment in innovation and emerging technologies and approaches is required to help ensure the national biosecurity system can meet the challenges of an ever changing global environment.

The 2017 report Priorities for Australia’s biosecurity system: An independent review of the capacity of the national biosecurity system and its underpinning intergovernmental agreement recommended the establishment of a National Biosecurity Innovation Program and the exploration of emerging technologies and approaches. These technologies could include such things as computer learning, robotics, Next Generation Sequencing, new biological controls and alternative management approaches to border interventions, to improve efficiency and effectiveness of biosecurity activities. The department will administer the program with aim to secure the future of Australia’s Biosecurity System.
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