Charles Sturt University is proud to announce that its Biosecurity Training Centre has been awarded the prestigious 2025 Australian Biosecurity Award for Education, recognising its outstanding contribution to national and international biosecurity capability.

Established in 2022 through a partnership between the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) and Charles Sturt University, the Biosecurity Training Centre has rapidly become a centre of excellence in biosecurity education. 

It has delivered more than 3,000 training days in 2024–25 alone, supporting over 3,000 DAFF officers and 180 international participants with professional development in regulatory, scientific, policy and operational domains. 

Charles Sturt Vice-Chancellor Professor Renée Leon said the award reflects the University’s commitment to regionally-focused innovation that solves local problems and shapes national solutions. 

“This recognition affirms the critical role Charles Sturt plays in building Australia’s biosecurity workforce and protecting our agricultural systems, environment and communities,” Professor Leon said. 

“It’s a testament to the expertise and dedication of our staff, and the power of regional research to drive national impact.” 

The BTC’s integrated training model combines technical expertise with regulatory professionalism, leadership and operational practice. 

Delivered by more than 20 academic facilitators across veterinary and agricultural sciences, education, psychology, business, law and scientific research, the courses enable progression from entry-level to executive roles, with a consistent focus on integrity, collaboration and capability. 

Professor David Mackay, Academic Director of the Biosecurity Training Centre, said the BTC exemplifies Charles Sturt’s mission to convert regional solutions into national policy and practice. 

“Our research and training in biosecurity, food security, climate resilience and smart farming are vital to Australia’s future,” Professor Mackay said. 

“This award highlights the value of investing in regional innovation as a core pillar of national development.” 

The BTC is strengthening Australia’s biosecurity system by equipping officers with the skills and confidence to respond to complex and evolving threats. 

It also supports DAFF’s capability uplift goals outlined in the Biosecurity 2030 Roadmap.