It’s been a year since the National Biosecurity Response Team (NBRT) Cadet program launched its first workshop, and what a year it has been! Since its official launch, this initiative has been making strides in equipping participants nation-wide with the skills and knowledge needed to tackle biosecurity emergencies head-on.
The NBRT Cadet team has been hard at work delivering workshops across the nation from Tasmania, Queensland, Northern Territory, Western Australia, the ACT and most recently Victoria and South Australia. The workshops covered a wide array of topics, ranging from an introduction to biosecurity emergency preparedness and the specific response principles underlying biosecurity emergencies within their home jurisdictions. The overarching goal was to enhance the jurisdictional Biosecurity Emergency Preparedness and Response (BEPR) capability and capacity, establish intrastate networks, and bolster the long-term sustainability and viability of the NBRT Program.
The NBRT Cadet program recognises the importance to jurisdictions of having well-trained personnel ready to spring into action at a moment’s notice. In an increasingly interconnected world where threats to biosecurity can arise from anywhere, the need for preparedness has never been greater. By investing in training initiatives like the NBRT Cadet program which complement existing preparedness efforts within the jurisdictions, Australia ensures that biosecurity staff are response ready and able to protect its borders and agricultural industries from potential biosecurity threats.
These collective efforts from within the jurisdictions and from programs like the NBRT Cadet program play a critical role in safeguarding Australia’s biosecurity. In the event of an outbreak or emergency, these individuals contain the knowledge of the framework, systems and processes required to be able to respond swiftly and effectively. Their expertise not only helps mitigate the immediate impacts of biosecurity incidents but also contributes to preventing the spread of pests and diseases that could devastate Australia’s ecosystems and economy.
By investing in initiatives like the NBRT Cadet program, Australia demonstrates its commitment to building response and resilience through exercises, training, education, and information-sharing. As the NBRT Cadet program celebrates its one-year milestone, it stands as a testament to the dedication and collaboration of all those involved. From the organisers and trainers to the participants themselves, each has played a vital role in shaping the success of the program.
