Biosecurity starts with us: how ordinary Australians are making a big difference

By Dr Samantha Allan, CEO Animal Health Australia

This National Biosecurity Week, we’re celebrating the everyday Australians who help protect what matters most — our environment, food, economy, and communities.

Biosecurity is often seen as the domain of government and industry. In reality, it’s a shared responsibility. From farmers and freight workers to teachers, students, and backyard gardeners, every one of us has a role to play. And sometimes, it’s the actions of ordinary people that make the biggest difference.

Citizen vigilance in action

Ordinary Australians are regularly the first line of defence when it comes to biosecurity — spotting risks early and taking action before they escalate.

In New South Wales, public reports helped authorities detect and contain outbreaks of red imported fire ants. This highly invasive pest threatens agriculture, infrastructure, and human health.

In July 2025, a school in Tweed Heads South reported suspicious ants to a licensed pest manager. The nest was confirmed and destroyed the next day, preventing further spread.

In May 2024, landscapers in South Murwillumbah reported a nest at a site where fire ants had previously been found — a timely alert that helped authorities act quickly.

These reports have contributed to the success of the National Red Imported Fire Ant Eradication Program.

In July 2025, a horse in southeast Queensland died from Hendra virus — the first confirmed case in the state since 2022.

The case was identified thanks to the vigilance of the horse’s owner and their veterinarian, who promptly reported the animal’s deteriorating condition.

Their quick action enabled Biosecurity Queensland and Queensland Health to respond rapidly, conduct tracing, and manage public health risks.

Wildlife Health Australia publishes quarterly Animal Health Surveillance Reports, which include incidents reported by members of the public, wildlife carers, and veterinarians.

These reports have documented cases of diseases like Australian bat lyssavirus and avian influenza in wild birds, often first detected thanks to community vigilance.

Everyday action, lasting impact

These stories remind us that biosecurity isn’t just about borders or government policies — it’s about people prioritising the safety of our animal, communities and industries. It’s about building a culture where biosecurity is second nature.

That’s why resources such as the National Biosecurity Training Hub and the new Youth Biosecurity Hub are so important. These free, accessible platforms offer practical resources for individuals, educators, and communities to learn how biosecurity works — and how they can contribute.

This National Biosecurity Week, I encourage all of us — especially those in leadership roles — to help spread the message: if you see something, say something. Because when we all take action, we all make a difference.