Quarantine Matters! 'Big Bugs'
What is 'Big Bugs?'
'Big Bugs' is the latest phase in the Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service's (AQIS) advertising campaign Quarantine Matters! The 'Big Bugs' campaign builds on existing awareness amongst the key target audiences about the dangers posed by pests and diseases that could be lurking in items from overseas.
Facts about 'Big Bugs'
The animatronic grub featured in the 30 second television commercial is based on an Asian Long Horned Beetle Larva. The real size of the Larva can be up to 5 cm in length. It is a wood borer and is known to cause considerable damage to wood and timber based products.
The bug featured in the 15 second commercial is based on the Khapra Beetle. The real size of the beetle is 0.3cm. It can be found in a variety of overseas dried plant and animal products where it is known to cause considerable damage.
Both the Khapra Beetle and the Asian Long Horned Beetle larvae are not currently found in Australia and pose a significant threat to Australia’s environment and agricultural industries.
The construction of both bugs was supervised by AQIS entomologists to ensure that the animatronic insects are accurately reflected in movement and appearance.
Further information
- What can't be mailed to Australia?
- Importing your household goods/furniture etc
- Importing cats/dogs to Australia
- Information for travellers
- Languages other than English
- Frequently asked questions