The Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment has announced a change in its ‘biofouling’ policy covering international ships arriving in Australian waters.
Deputy Secretary of the Department, Andrew Tongue explained biofouling as the international term used for organisms, like clams, crabs, mussels or plants, that attached themselves to ships and grew in places like the hull, propellers, bow thrusters and rudders.
“In order to reduce the risk of marine pests establishing themselves in Australia, changes have been made to the Biosecurity Regulation 2016,” Mr Tongue said.
“From 15 June, all vessels subject to biosecurity control will be required to provide information relating to biofouling management practices before they arrive in Australia,” he said.
Mr Tongue said just by introducing this small requirement, the Department could incentivise best practice to manage biofouling for all ships coming to Australia, allowing it to focus its resources on managing any risks.
“This also brings Australia into line with the International Maritime Organization’s 2011 biofouling guidelines,” he said.
“Simple steps can make a huge difference in how we can manage biosecurity in Australia.”
Mr Tongue said biosecurity was everyone’s responsibility “and we all have a role to play in keeping Australia safe from pests, weeds and disease”.
