Australia is launching a $10.7 million hi-tech biosecurity platform called Biosecurity Trakka, designed to modernize plant biosecurity defences nationwide. Built on advances from the COVID-19 pandemic and DNA technology, the platform will provide a secure online hub for DNA sequencing, data storage, analysis, and viewing, enabling scientists and decision-makers to quickly identify pest and disease threats to primary industries.
Led by the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development from the Elizabeth Macarthur Agricultural Institute, the five-year project extends the AusTrakka system used during COVID-19. Biosecurity Trakka will reduce response times by allowing rapid identification of exotic plant pests and diseases, facilitating timely action to mitigate threats. The initiative involves collaboration with governments, universities, industry groups, and Bioplatforms Australia, with completion expected by 2030.
The platform will deliver key benefits for NSW and the nation by improving diagnostics tools, enhancing preparedness, and minimizing the impact of interstate outbreaks. It will also build capacity across jurisdictions to detect and respond to biosecurity threats more effectively.
National collaboration is central to the project. The University of Melbourne will lead platform analysis, Agriculture Victoria will contribute to design and beta testing, DPIRD WA will oversee user feedback, and the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry will manage data sharing agreements. Training programs will be supported by the Australian National University and Bioplatforms Australia to upskill users across jurisdictions.
Minister for Agriculture Tara Moriarty emphasized that Biosecurity Trakka will strengthen preparedness in NSW’s $25 billion agriculture sector, removing delays in DNA sequence sharing during suspected pest outbreaks. Hort Innovation CEO Brett Fifield highlighted the project as a strong example of innovation through collaboration, while NSW DPIRD’s Will Cuddy noted the importance of sharing expertise and lessons from past biosecurity responses to deliver national capability uplift.
Together, Biosecurity Trakka represents a world-leading tool to defend against invasive pests and diseases, ensuring stronger national coordination, faster diagnostics, and tangible benefits for growers and communities across Australia.
