Biosecurity hazard

Biosecurity hazard in the Cessnock LGA

Biosecurity is about protecting our land, animals, environment, and economy from harmful pests, diseases, weeds, and contaminants. In a regional area like Cessnock, where agriculture, tourism and bushland are all important, biosecurity plays a critical role in safeguarding both livelihoods and community wellbeing.

Whether you’re a landholder, home gardener, pet owner, or business operator, everyone has a role to play in reducing biosecurity risks.

What is a biosecurity hazard?

Biosecurity hazards include:

  • Animal diseases (e.g. foot-and-mouth disease, avian influenza)
  • Plant pests and diseases (e.g. varroa mite, fruit fly, Panama disease)
  • Invasive weeds (e.g. fireweed, serrated tussock)
  • Contaminated soil or feed that may carry pests or disease
  • Unregulated movement of animals or plant products without proper checks
  • These threats can cause significant damage to our natural environment, native species, agriculture, and local businesses if not managed properly.

Your general biosecurity duty

Under the NSW Biosecurity Act 2015, all individuals have a General Biosecurity Duty. This means you are legally required to take reasonable steps to prevent, eliminate or minimise biosecurity risks.

This applies to anyone who:

  • Owns or manages land
  • Works with livestock, crops, or animal feed
  • Transports or receives machinery, equipment or plant material
  • Hosts visitors or tourists on rural property
  • Moves animals, plants, or biological products across properties or regions
  • Learn more about your biosecurity responsibilities here: NSW DPIRD – Managing Biosecurity

What you can do to be biosecure

  • Inspect and clean machinery, vehicles, clothing and footwear before entering or leaving rural or bushland areas
  • Keep watch for unusual pests, weeds, or signs of disease and report them early
  • Participate in traceability systems such as the National Livestock Identification System (NLIS)
  • Use the right permits, registrations, and licenses when transporting animals, feed, or plant material
  • Manage weeds actively and seek advice on local priority species
  • Educate workers and visitors to your property about biosecurity practices
  • Have a biosecurity plan for your property or business
  • Use this free Biosecurity Planner Tool

Stay informed and take part in response activities when NSW DPIRD or Local Land Services lead a biosecurity response

Why biosecurity matters

  • It protects local farms and primary industries from outbreaks and financial loss
  • It helps maintain clean trade and export markets for Australian products
  • It preserves native flora and fauna, especially in conservation areas
  • It reduces the risk of major health emergencies in animals and humans
  • It supports a strong, sustainable future for the Cessnock region

Report something unusual

If you see anything concerning — such as signs of a pest or disease in animals, plants or produce — report it promptly to:

NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development
1800 680 244
dpi.nsw.gov.au/biosecurity

Cessnock City Council supports local efforts to build a biosecure region and encourages landholders, businesses and residents to learn more and take action.

Let us know if you'd like assistance with local weed management, land use planning, or biosecurity education in your community.

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