Centenary of Quarantine

Something to declare—Centenary of Quarantine 1908-2008

2008 marked 100 years since the introduction of the Quarantine Act 1908.

The Act provides the legislative basis for human, plant and animal quarantine activities in Australia. It provides a national approach to the protection of Australia’s international borders from incursions by exotic pests and diseases.

The centenary was a historical milestone in Australia's development as a nation. It was also a celebration of our quarantine journey and the valuable contribution of all involved in quarantine activities in Australia. 

Quarantine and its importance to Australia

The celebration of the Centenary of Quarantine not only recognised the importance of quarantine and its critical role in Australia's ongoing health and prosperity, but also its remarkable story from our early quarantine achievements to our unique and enviable position as one of the very few countries to be free of many of the world's worst agricultural pests and diseases.

While our geographical isolation has played a key role in maintaining this status, the real success of quarantine continues to rely on the vigilance and commitment of the Australian community, the Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service (AQIS), Department of Health and Ageing and other government agencies, and the critical involvement of industry and agricultural bodies, exporters and importers, researchers, government agencies and overseas organisations.

The centenary was a unique opportunity to acknowledge the remarkable work and commitment of the thousands of staff who inspect and clear millions of passenger items, ships, mail items, cargo containers, plants and animals and live imports and exports each year. Their integrity and professionalism helps protect Australia's multi-billion-dollar agricultural exports industry, our tourism industries and our natural flora and fauna.

Equally important is the contribution of the Australian community, in particular, the indigenous communities and populations of northern Australia who assist in reporting and monitoring possible pest and disease incursions from neighbouring countries and islands—an area where Australia is extremely vulnerable.

The success of Australia's stringent quarantine practices means we are free from many of the world's worst pests and diseases.

Commemorative items

To recognise the Centenary of Quarantine, the Royal Australian Mint issued a commemorative one dollar coin. The coin featured a detector dog on duty and over 23,000 units were sold.
 
Australia Post also recognised the Centenary by issuing a circulated commemorative stamp. The stamp helped raise public awareness of the importance of quarantine.

Centenary timeline poster

The Centenary of Quarantine timeline poster encapsulates 100 years of quarantine. Spanning 1908 to 2008, it notes all the significant events that have affected Australia's quarantine.

Something to declare exhibition

As part of recognising 100 years of quarantine in Australia, eight banners were developed to highlight the signing of the Quarantine Act 1908.  

Something to declare	Vinegar, lime and mercury dips	Eyes, ears and nose	Fevers, spots and sneezes
PDF [708kb]	PDF [924kb]	PDF [608kb]	PDF [687kb]
Keeping it green and pristine	Food for thought	Quarantine Matters!	Australia's most unwanted
PDF [770kb]	PDF [770kb]	PDF [664kb]	PDF [677kb]