DAWE’s head of biosecurity Andrew Tongue

AUSTRALIA’S national biosecurity strategy of shared responsibility and partnerships, and preparedness will be the focus of the 2021 National Biosecurity Forum this week.

The Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment’s head of biosecurity, Andrew Tongue, said forum on 10-11 November would focus on the future, including the national biosecurity strategy, shared responsibility and partnerships and preparedness.

“Our world class biosecurity system supports agricultural production, exports and economic activity along with ensuring the environmental and community amenity Australians enjoy.

“Biosecurity has underpinned the response to COVID-19, including prioritising the clearance of critical medical supplies and grocery items to meet the needs of Australians during the pandemic,” Mr Tongue said.

“Australia continues to face increasing biosecurity challenges, such as growing trade volumes, increasingly complex supply chains and climate change and variability.

“These factors increase the risk of exotic pests and diseases entering the country,” he said.

“The annual National Biosecurity Forum brings key industry and government stakeholders together to discuss opportunities, issues and priorities for Australia’s biosecurity system.

“It’s also an opportunity to promote interesting or significant work and projects being undertaken in the biosecurity space.”

The 2021 Australian Biosecurity Award winners will be announced at the forum.

“I encourage all interested stakeholders to attend the forum and engage in discussions about new programs and innovative approaches to managing Australia’s biosecurity challenges,” Mr Tongue said

Register for the 2021 National Biosecurity Forum here www.agriculture.gov.au/biosecurity/partnerships/nbc/national-biosecurity-forum