Biosecurity
Queensland’s biosecurity risks are projected to quadruple in the coming years. Current funding and partnership models are not enough to address the complex threats of pests, diseases and weeds.
Protecting Queenslanders from these risks is essential to safeguarding our communities, economy and way of life.
We advocate for a shared responsibility and investment model to equip Queensland to effectively manage rising biosecurity risks. Biosecurity is everyone’s risk — and everyone’s responsibility.
Our areas of focus
Strengthening biosecurity frameworks
Our focus is to:
- elevate biosecurity as a priority across all government portfolios, and work with industry and community to review Queensland’s funding model for better preparedness and risk management
- establish biosecurity zones with stronger surveillance, preparedness and response capabilities
- proactively engage with industries beyond agriculture to drive a whole-of-supply-chain approach to biosecurity.
Regional biosecurity investment
Our focus is to:
- encourage increased regional biosecurity capacity, including for the Queensland Feral Pest Initiative to address regional priorities
- encourage extension of the fire ant eradication program support for local governments to combat red imported fire ants and yellow crazy ants
- accelerate the use of technology to strengthen surveillance and response to key biosecurity risks
- review policy decisions that increase or directly contribute to biosecurity risks
- ensure protected land areas meet obligations for biosecurity, fire preparedness and pest management.
Systems and innovation for preparedness and early detection
Our focus is on:
- ensuring governments maintain and update essential tools, such as traceability systems, to support disease emergency responses
- prioritising early detection through awareness, targeted and general surveillance, and the use of innovative ways to monitor animal and plant health
- encouraging the government to ba surveillance strategy that aligns with the Queensland Biosecurity Strategy, as recommended in the 2016 Biosecurity Capability Report.
Our biosecurity submissions
Our biosecurity team
Adam Knapp is QFF’s General Manager for Policy and Projects, leading the strategic development and delivery of policy initiatives that strengthen Queensland’s agricultural sector.
With more than 25 years’ experience across government, industry and research, Adam combines critical analysis, policy expertise and stakeholder engagement to address complex issues in sustainable agriculture, biosecurity, water management, climate change and natural resource management. He provides high-level policy advice to QFF’s CEO, Board and members, and oversees a diverse portfolio of projects and staff working across Queensland.
Adam’s work includes driving legislative submissions, shaping QFF’s advocacy priorities, and building partnerships that deliver practical, future-focused solutions for farmers and rural communities. Prior to joining QFF, he held roles with the National Native Title Tribunal, Seafood Services Australia, Harrods and Ernst & Young in London.
Adam holds qualifications in behavioural science, political science and leadership.