The Crisafulli Government is delivering a major boost to Queensland’s biosecurity frontline, with 100 new biosecurity officers funded through a $50 million investment in this year’s Budget. This initiative comes at a critical time to protect our state’s agriculture and primary industries from emerging threats — and it has a direct impact for Cairns and Far North Queensland.
As part of this program, Cairns will welcome a team of new biosecurity officers, including specialist veterinarians, stock inspectors, and agronomists. These officers will work alongside local industry and councils to address biosecurity challenges unique to the region. From protecting tropical crops to safeguarding livestock, these officers will ensure Queensland maintains its world-leading biosecurity standards.
The first wave of officers has already started or is in recruitment, aligning with National Biosecurity Week. Cairns will see roles including:
- Regional Biosecurity Lead North
- Senior Executive and Support Officers
- Principal and Operational Veterinarians
These officers will embed themselves in the community, working directly with growers, farmers, and industry stakeholders to deliver local solutions to local biosecurity challenges.
Under the former government, Queensland’s biosecurity capacity was reduced by 20%, including the closure of the northern checkpoint at Coen and cuts to regional services. The Crisafulli Government is reversing these trends, restoring capacity and reviewing previous closures, including the Cape York Biosecurity Facility at Coen, to ensure evidence-based, practical biosecurity strategies are in place for northern Queensland.
For Cairns, this investment means enhanced protection for tropical agriculture, closer collaboration between biosecurity officers and local producers, and increased confidence that emerging threats will be managed quickly and effectively. It’s about safeguarding the livelihoods of families and workers across the region, while ensuring our tropical produce continues to reach markets safely.
This is a clear signal that the Crisafulli Government is serious about supporting Far North Queensland’s primary industries, delivering better jobs, safer communities, and a stronger economy for the region.
