Australian biosecurity champions recognised at national awards

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, the Hon Julie Collins MP, Secretary Victoria Anderson, and Deputy Secretary, Biosecurity, Operations and Compliance Group, Justine Saunders, with the 2026 Australian Biosecurity Award recipients at the Margaret Whitlam Pavilion, National Arboretum Canberra. IMAGE: agriculture.gov.au

By Jessica Dempster

Twelve individuals and organisations have been recognised for their contributions to Australia's biosecurity system at the 2026 Australian Biosecurity Awards.

The awards covered nine categories, recognising achievements across science and innovation, farm biosecurity, First Nations leadership, industry, government, community and education.

Among the recipients were the Djelk Women Rangers, recognised for their surveillance of migratory shorebirds in northern Australia, and Wildlife Health Australia for strengthening preparedness for highly pathogenic avian influenza.

Other recipients included Kevin Cooper, who has spent more than four decades working in biosecurity emergency response, and plant pathologist Professor Caroline Mohammed.

The awards also coincided with the launch of the Australian Biosecurity Research Hub, designed to connect researchers and encourage collaboration.

Agriculture Minister Julie Collins says the awards recognise the important role individuals, communities and organisations play in protecting Australia's agriculture, environment and way of life.