Western Australia’s quarantine officials have said novice travellers ignoring strict biosecurity regulations are putting the State’s $8 billion agriculture industry at risk.
The State’s Department of Primary Industries seized 20 tonnes of banned produce last year, some of which was infected with destructive pests such as mango seed weevil and codling moths, with the most commonly seized items being potatoes and honey.
Western Australia bans import of fresh fruit and vegetables into the state with some exceptions, with quarantine officers recommending travellers crossing the border to cook the produce prior to entering the State.