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Pacific Conservation Biology Pacific Conservation Biology Society
A journal dedicated to conservation and wildlife management in the Pacific region.
REVIEW

Emerging threats to biosecurity in Australasia: the need for an integrated management strategy

M. J. Lott A B D and K. Rose C
+ Author Affiliations
- Author Affiliations

A Department of Biological Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia.

B Biosecurity Futures Research Centre, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia.

C Australian Registry of Wildlife Health, Taronga Conservation Society Australia, Mosman, NSW 2088, Australia.

D Corresponding author. Email: matthew.lott@mq.edu.au

Pacific Conservation Biology 22(2) 182-188 https://doi.org/10.1071/PC15040
Submitted: 6 November 2015  Accepted: 18 January 2016   Published: 4 March 2016

Abstract

The intersection of numerous global megatrends is driving the emergence of significantly more complex biosecurity challenges in Australasia. Additional legislative and management frameworks, coupled with dedicated funding sources, will be required to protect the region’s native biodiversity and the human activities that depend on it. This review explores how more comprehensive biosecurity initiatives might be implemented through the adoption of robust pre-border and border quarantine practices, the use of emerging technologies to improve border and post-border biosurveillance and monitoring, and the integration of multiple social, economic and ecological objectives into a more holistic management paradigm. This review also discusses the need for a multidisciplinary approach to biosecurity, driven by improved co-operation across government agencies, industry, community and scientific stakeholders, in order to safeguard the unique biological heritage of the Australasia region.

Additional keywords: Australasia, biosecurity, emerging technologies, integrated management, wildlife health.


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