The Department of Agriculture and Water Resources has launched a Facebook page to highlight the importance of biosecurity for travellers and online shoppers.
With many Australians heading online for Christmas presents this season, the page contains information for people travelling or sending goods to Australia.
Recent posts to the page include information on the risks on buying unique and exotic seeds such as blue watermelons, monkey-faced orchids or rainbow roses.
Its 12 days of Christmas has a slight twist, with the first post warning “Plants from overseas can carry disease that if we don’t seize could squeeze our $9 billion horticulture industries”
Raelene Vivian, first assistant secretary of the department’s Compliance Division, said biosecurity was a shared responsibility and the Australian public was an important partner.
“The vast majority of people want to do the right thing – but not everyone understands the rules. That’s why we want to help the public understand how they can work with us to protect our environment, agricultural industries and economy.”
The site also gives people the chance to see behind-the-scenes.
“It will also showcase some of the interesting and incredible things our staff see at airports and mail centres every single day.”