12 April 2025

Jane Howlett, Minister for Primary Industries and Water

The fast-approaching Easter school holidays provide a timely reminder that keeping Tasmania safe from pests and diseases are important when travelling in and out of the state.
Minister for Primary Industries and Water, Jane Howlett, said strict biosecurity measures protect Tasmania’s primary industries, the economy, environment and way of life from the negative impacts of pests, weeds and diseases.
“We know the value of keeping our island state free of pests and diseases,” Minister Howlett said.
“Tasmania’s agriculture sector has never been more important and by taking a few simple actions people can help to protect thousands of jobs which support our rural and regional communities.
“Through our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s future we have invested $5 million in biosecurity to protect our borders and manage risk to primary industries.
“Whether you live in Tasmania or you are visiting, you can take steps to help protect Tasmania from the biosecurity risks posed by pests and diseases not endemic to the State.”
People can do their bit to protect the state by following the biosecurity basics:
  • Be careful what you bring to Tasmania, check your bags to make sure you're not bringing any biosecurity restricted items into the state. If you do have restricted items, ensure you declare the item or dispose of it in the provided amnesty bins at your point of arrival.
  • Clean your clothes, gear, vehicles and equipment before travelling to Tasmania. Potential contaminants, such as dirt, seeds or disease, could be lurking on the bottom of your shoes, or in the mud caked on your car, caravan, or mountain bike.
  • Stay on the formed paths and tracks when visiting Tasmania's parks and reserves, and keep to designated areas when visiting farms, orchards, and vineyards.
  • Keep an eye out for anything unusual and report it to Biosecurity Tasmania on 03 6165 3777 or Biosecurity.Tasmania@nre.tas.gov.au
For more information visit: https://nre.tas.gov.au/biosecuritybasics
If you want specific information on what items can or cannot be brought to Tasmania visit: https://nre.tas.gov.au/travellersguide