7 days of awareness. 365 days of action.

National Biosecurity Week (NBW) returns from 25-31 August 2025, shining a spotlight on the vital role biosecurity plays in protecting Australia’s environment, food supply, economy and way of life.
This year, the focus is on demystifying biosecurity, showing that it is not just about border control or people in hazmat suits, but about everyday actions that safeguard the things we all value.

Why biosecurity matters?

Biosecurity protects what we value most:

• safe, high-quality food on our tables
• healthy farms and native landscapes
• continued access to export markets
• a resilient economy and thriving communities.

Australia has strong systems in place, but exotic pests, diseases and weeds can still enter and spread. National Biosecurity Week highlights the shared responsibility of governments, industry, communities and individuals in protecting the Australian way of life.

How you can make a difference
Biosecurity is strongest when everyone takes part. The good news is that small, everyday actions add up to big protection for our farms, environment and communities. Here are simple ways you can help:

Follow the rules at borders
Declare all food, plant material and animal products when entering Australia or travelling between states.

Don’t bring pests home
Check your shoes, gear and luggage for soil, seeds or insects after travelling, camping or visiting farms.

Buy local, not overseas
Avoid purchasing plants, seeds or food from unregulated international sellers. If you shop online, choose reputable suppliers who meet Australian biosecurity standards.

Report illegal imports
If you suspect suspicious shipments or see exotic pets or plants being sold illegally, report it to Border Watch or local authorities.

Be a backyard inspector
Look out for unusual pests, diseases or weeds in your garden or on your pets. Report anything suspicious to:

• Exotic Plant Pest Hotline: 1800 084 881
• Emergency Animal Disease Hotline: 1800 675 888

Don’t dump garden waste in the bush
It can introduce invasive weeds and pests into native ecosystems.

Clean your gear
Wash down bikes, boats, fishing gear, work tools and vehicles before moving between properties or environments.

Respect farm biosecurity signs
Obey “Restricted Access” signs on farms and follow hygiene protocols when visiting rural properties.

Educate your kids
Help the next generation understand why biosecurity matters. The Youth Biosecurity Training Hub offers fun, age-appropriate resources, games and activities that make learning engaging.

Learn more about biosecurity
The National Biosecurity Training Hub offers free, easy-to-access courses for all Australians
National Biosecurity Week is about integrating biosecurity into daily life. By taking small steps every day, we can all contribute to a stronger biosecurity system, protecting today for tomorrow.

Learn more or register your event bioweek.org.au

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