A new initiative is urging Queensland businesses to take biosecurity as seriously as other critical risks, with the Queensland Farmers’ Federation (QFF) and Biosecurity Queensland leading the charge.
Biosecurity in the Boardroom highlights the growing threat of biosecurity incursions across all sectors of the economy, not just agriculture. With risks forecast to quadruple over the next decade, organisers say businesses of all kinds need to act now to protect supply chains, reputations, and long-term viability.
QFF CEO Jo Sheppard said biosecurity has traditionally been seen as a farm-based issue, but it is increasingly a concern for all industries.
“Biosecurity impacts Queensland’s cultural, environmental, social, and economic values,” Ms Sheppard said.
“Business leaders must treat biosecurity as a core risk, just like workplace health and safety, to safeguard continuity and avoid reputational and financial damage.”
The initiative provides resources for company boards and senior executives, prompting businesses to consider biosecurity in their strategic planning, corporate culture, and day-to-day operations. From tourism to transport, education to energy, every sector has a role to play in protecting Queensland’s biosecurity system.
The launch event, held at Customs House in Brisbane, featured leaders from multiple industries and was opened by Assistant Minister for Primary Industry Development, Water and Western Queensland Sean Dillon MP, who highlighted the importance of cross-sector collaboration.
“Partnerships like Biosecurity in the Boardroom bring together the expertise we need across business, industry, and government to strengthen Queensland’s biosecurity system,” Mr Dillon said.
Keynote speaker Dr Rachel Chay, Queensland’s Chief Biosecurity Officer, warned that biosecurity risks are not confined to farms or regional areas.
“Addressing these risks requires a united effort—from boardrooms to paddocks,” she said.
With strong attendance from a wide range of industries, QFF says the initiative reinforces that biosecurity is a whole-of-economy issue. Whether moving goods, managing supply chains, or hosting visitors, all sectors are vulnerable—and all have a role to play.
For more information and resources, businesses can visit www.business.qld.gov.au/running-business/risk/biosecurity.
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