Australian farmers have expressed deep concerns regarding the presence of illegal foreign fishing vessels off the Queensland coast, fearing they might bring with them serious biosecurity threats. This includes diseases such as lumpy skin disease and foot-and-mouth disease, as well as harmful pests that could significantly impact the beef and horticulture sectors. Given that these pests have been identified in neighboring countries, their incursion into Australia poses a risk the farmers cannot afford to ignore.

The Australian Border Force has been proactive in addressing this issue, successfully intercepting at least 13 illegal fishing vessels since the onset of the year. In response, the federal government is initiating a multi-agency operation aimed at enhancing surveillance and enforcement against foreign fishing activities. Farmers are increasingly vocal about their needs for stronger biosecurity measures to prevent potential outbreaks that could cripple their industries.

Farmers are particularly concerned as any biosecurity breach could lead to disastrous repercussions for both the beef and horticulture industries, which are already on edge due to the illegal activities in nearby waters. The government's commitment to tackle this problem is viewed as a necessary step to safeguard the agricultural sector, ensuring that such incursions do not result in overwhelming pest and disease outbreaks that could pose threats to the viability of their livelihoods and the nation’s food security.