Western Australians are being urged to do their part to keep our State free from devastating pests and diseases that could affect animals, primary industries, and the environment in a new biosecurity awareness campaign.
With the upcoming school holidays and travel set to increase, the State Government's Biosecurity - We Can All Do Our Part campaign reminds everyone to do the right thing and employ simple measures to keep WA safe from threats like foot and mouth disease.
This includes making sure shoes, clothing or equipment are clean when returning from overseas or travelling in the regions, and checking what items are allowed to be brought in via the mail.
Biosecurity risks have become a global challenge in recent years, driven by increasing international travel and shipping, more complex supply chains, and a changing environment.
In the past 12 months alone, there have been five new biosecurity incidents in WA including American serpentine leafminer, polyphagous shot-hole borer, potato spindle, blueberry rust and Japanese encephalitis, in addition to seven ongoing incursions.
The McGowan Government boosted the State's biosecurity emergency preparedness capability and capacity with a $15.1 million 2021-22 budget commitment over four years to support early detection surveillance and pest and disease responses.
Maintaining a strong biosecurity system is critical to growing WA's economy and regions, and protecting the State's $11 billion primary industries and natural resources.
For more information: mediastatements.wa.gov.au