Risk Background

New prefabricated units may pose a biosecurity risk if they become contaminated prior to arriving in Australian territory. Biosecurity risk material includes soil, water, insects, spiders, live plants and animals, plant and animal material.

Prefabricated units are often destined for use in non-metropolitan areas of Australian territory. If infested with pests and/or contaminated with biosecurity risk material, these imports can provide an ideal pathway for an exotic pest or disease to enter and establish in Australian territory. Consequently, if significant insect infestations or biosecurity risks are intercepted on arrival, prefabricated units and caravans may be directed for immediate export at the importer’s expense.

To avoid this situation, before shipment, importers should apply appropriate control measures during manufacture, storage and transportation. Knockdown sprays and/or residual insecticides can assist in managing pests.

Plumbing, drains and other reservoirs, including guttering and downpipes, can retain water potentially carrying microscopic mosquito eggs and larvae, and should be flushed out and all standing water removed.