We recently concluded the Hitchhiker Pest Awareness campaign: I’m in the business of biosecurity. Its goal was to raise awareness to help protect Australia’s agriculture, economy, and way of life from invasive pests that can enter our country via shipping containers and imported goods.
With climate change and increased global trade raising the risk, this issue has never been more urgent. A single pest incursion, like the khapra beetle, could cost Australia $19.4 billion over 20 years.
The campaign targeted those most likely to encounter invasive pests including seaport operators, importers, and logistics companies. This message was clear, if you handle shipping containers or imported goods, you’re in the business of biosecurity.
We encouraged the audience to report unusual pest sightings immediately through our See. Secure. Report hotline.
The campaign ran from September to late October leveraging social media and webpage advertisements. Biosecurity-branded merchandise was distributed across Australia to importers and key industry personal. We also hosted industry webinars which attracted more than 200 participants and engaged directly with stakeholders at the Biennial Ports Australia Conference.
Due to the positive response from industry, we are considering repeating this campaign to keep Australia vigilant against hitchhiker pests.
Resources are available on the campaign website to help you learn more about hitchhiker pests and share our biosecurity message. You’ll find:
- key information on hitchhiker pests and what to look out for
- a digital information kit with shareable resources
- access to our Hitchhiker Pest Awareness Industry webinar
- training materials and videos
- posters and factsheet.
Remember, if you detect anything unusual around imported goods, report it to our See. Secure. Report hotline by calling 1800 798 636 or by using our online form.
Let’s work together to keep Australia pest-free!