Your role in Biosecurity

Biosecurity is the protection of the economy, environment and community from the negative impacts of pests and diseases, weeds and contaminants.


We can only successfully manage biosecurity when every person plays a part. The idea that biosecurity is a shared responsibility means we all need to do our bit to protect the economy, environment and community from biosecurity threats. It is a concept that is enshrined in NSW legislation and outlined in our NSW Biosecurity Strategy.


For more information on how biosecurity is managed in NSW, see Managing Biosecurity in NSW


Being biosecure means that you:

  • Take steps to prevent pests, diseases and weeds from entering NSW and spreading to new areas
  • Keep an eye out for pests, weeds and signs of disease
  • Report anything unusual to NSW DPI
  • Participate where you can when we are responding to incursions and biosecurity emergencies.

Biosecurity isn’t just about farmers and livestock and it isn’t just about quarantine and border security.


There are hundreds of different ways that diseases, pests and weeds can enter NSW and move and spread to new areas.


For example, you might be a backyard gardener and be keen to buy seeds online – but you could unwittingly import a pest or diseased plant.


Or perhaps you’re getting rid of the plants from your fish tank – did you know some popular aquarium plants are highly invasive species, and pose significant risks to waterways?


Have you ever had a weekend away camping, hiking or fishing? You should check to make sure you’re not transporting seeds or bugs on your vehicle, clothing, boots or equipment.


This section of our website is designed to help you identify different risks and actions you can take to be biosecure.

The principle of everyone playing a role in managing biosecurity, as a shared responsibility is captured in legislation.

Everyone is required to follow the rules that prohibit some high-risk activities and materials. In addition, under the Biosecurity Act people have a general obligation to be aware of their surroundings and take action to prevent the introduction and spread of pests, diseases, weeds and contaminants.

Read more about the general biosecurity duty.