Biosecurity Officer

As a biosecurity officer you will provide information on general pest and disease, and help farmers to identify, prevent, and eradicate threats. You will frequently travel regionally and interstate to inspect produce and engage with growers.

The horticulture industry takes biosecurity very seriously, outbreaks of pests and disease can cause millions of dollars in damage and widespread sickness. As a biosecurity officer you will be helping to protect Australia and its’ $4.8 billion horticulture industry from exotic or local plant pests and disease.

Whilst the Australian border force helps to prevent the incoming of many foreign pest and disease at air and shipping ports, it is important that biosecurity officers are also out on farm to provide another layer of defence.

Core Tasks:

Inspecting animals, plants, and agricultural produce to identify pests and disease, and provide advice to producers.
Auditing and monitoring quality and hygiene procedures at farms and processing facilities to ensure compliance with required standards.
Testing samples of produce for quality, size, and purity.
Advising primary producers on economic aspects of disease eradication and informing producers and the public of the health implications of diseases and impurities.
Advising on the identification of pests and diseases and on regulations pertaining to grading, packing, and loading of products.
Patrolling and investigating waterways for unlawful fishing activities and the removal of protected marine life.
May initiate or assist in legal action to enforce regulations.
Inspecting import and export documentation.
Have a deep understanding of biosecurity protocols.
Holding workshops to raise awareness of specific pests and disease.

Study Pathways:

PUA30919 – Certificate III in Public Safety (Biosecurity Emergency Response Operations)
PUA40419 – Certificate IV in Public Safety (Biosecurity Emergency Response Leadership)
PUA50219 – Diploma of Public Safety (Biosecurity Emergency Response Management)

Soft Skills: