Biosecurity invaders

Australia is home to thousands of amazing and unique plants and animals. With increasing trade and tourism, the movement of foreign species has increased dramatically worldwide. Millions of people travel across the globe every day, as well as thousands of ships, planes, trains, trucks and cars, often taking (knowingly or otherwise) hitchhikers along for the ride.

When an introduced or non-native species begins to have negative consequences—either environmental, economic or on human health—it is classed as invasive. Invasive exotic species are one of the biggest environmental problems facing Australia. They also cause economic and cultural damage and are the number one cause of native animal extinctions across Australia. Invasive species cost, in terms of management, control and economic loss, around $14billion each year.

Our biggest challenge is to limit the impacts of these invasive species and prevent new ones from arriving. Check out these resources to find out more about these hitchhiking pests, what to do and what NOT to do if you spot one of these nasty invaders.