Quarantine in Northern Australia

Why quarantine matters in northern Australia

Australia is free from many pests, diseases and weeds present in Southeast Asia and some Pacific countries. Their introduction could devastate our plant and animal industries. Cape York and the Torres Strait are the most likely routes of entry onto the mainland for many exotic pests, weeds and diseases. For example:

• The papaya fruit fly is in PNG and Indonesia and has been found in the Torres Strait, where there is an intensive program of monitoring and control. If brought to the mainland in fruit carried from infected areas, it could severely affect our international trade.
• Screw-worm fly, a serious pest of warm-blooded animals (including people), is in countries to our north and could be introduced via animals brought to our shores illegally. It would pose a serious threat to our cattle and wildlife.
• Red banded mango caterpillar has been found on islands in the Torres Strait and could be introduced to the nation's main mango-producing areas in fruit moved illegally to the mainland. It could devastate Australia's mango industry.

When visiting Cape York and the Torres Strait:

Please observe the special quarantine regulations in these regions. For example:

• It is against the law to move plant and animal material, including fruit, from the Torres Strait to the mainland; and
• Restrictions apply on moving plant material, including fruit, south from Cape York.
  
  
• Take time to read and follow the quarantine signage and brochures.
• Quarantine officers are available to assist you.
• You can tune into radio FM 88.0 - the quarantine station transmitted on the Cape York tourist route.
• Before visiting remote areas find out if quarantine restrictions apply. If they do, draw them to the attention of other travellers.
• If you are familiar with an area and notice unusual animal behaviour or signs of pests and diseases, tell a quarantine officer.
• Don't take, or encourage others to take, animal or plant material ashore from visiting vessels.

By following these simple precautions, you could be preventing a quarantine crisis that could severely affect our way of life in Australia.

Further Information

For further information contact the AQIS Northern Australia Quarantine Strategy