6 years ago
New biosecurity in-flight video takes off
David Littleproud MP
- New biosecurity in-flight video ‘Don’t be sorry, just declare it’ launched on international airlines
- Video raises awareness of biosecurity risks and what can and can’t be brought into Australia
- It has been produced in English, Mandarin and Hindi languages
- It may not be a blockbuster but a new in-flight video launched today will help protect Australia’s unique environment and $63 billion agricultural industry.
- Minister for Agriculture and Water Resources David Littleproud said passengers will better understand their personal responsibilities before landing on Aussie soil through the new biosecurity video - ‘Don’t be sorry, just declare it’.
- “International flights can be a great chance to switch off, but we are asking passengers take a few moments to ensure they correctly declare any risk items on their incoming passenger card,” Minister Littleproud said.
- “The old excuse of ‘mum packed my bag’ doesn’t fly.
“Don’t bother about saving airline food for later on as it must not leave the plane. - “If you fail to declare food, animal or plant products, and any natural medicines, you may face serious penalties for providing false information. No excuse is good enough.
- “We are still seeing a concerning number of passengers bringing in high-risk food items, such as fresh produce and meat.
- “Travelers have a very important role to play in helping to protect Australia’s world-class biosecurity status. “We’re here to help, and want your entry into Australia to be as smooth as possible.”
- The Coalition Government has increased biosecurity investment 29 per cent since 2012–13.
To view the video, visit agriculture.gov.au/passenger-video.
To learn more about what can and cannot be brought to Australia, visit agriculture.gov.au/travelling. - Fast Facts:
- 340,000 biosecurity risk items were intercepted at Australia’s border in 2017, including live marine animals, reptiles, seeds and plants
- Since 2013, the Australian Government has increased biosecurity investment by over 29 per cent, totalling $783.2 million this financial year.
- Airport biosecurity safeguards Australia from significant pests and diseases that can impact on the environment, agricultural industries, plant, animal and human health