In the face of global climate change, a growing human population and the threat of bioterrorism, plant pests and diseases are an increasingly important threat to human, animal and plant biosecurity and ultimately global food security. This course examines the human, economic and environmental impact of pests and diseases. It explores the biology of major threat organisms including pest animals, weeds, parasites and pathogenic micro-organisms, with a focus on endemic and exotic threats to Australian agriculture. The social, economic and environmental impact and effectiveness of regulatory, chemical, biological and biotechnological measures used to control pests and diseases will also be examined. Australian regulatory frameworks designed to exclude exotic pests and diseases and to manage endemic pests and diseases will be a particular focus.

Honours Pathway Option (HPO)

Entry to this option will be subject to approval by the course convener. Students who take this option will be required to undertake a small lab-based project in the mid-semester break and write a brief report. The report will be assessed and this assessment will replace the assessment for the case-study seminar.

Undergraduate LOs:

On satisfying the requirements of this course, students will have the knowledge and skills to:

1. research biosecurity information and online biosecurity resources;
2. discuss and present biosecurity information verbally, visually and in writing;
3. understand the regulatory frameworks related to biosecurity and ability to navigate and use these frameworks.

• Written exam 30%
• Case-study seminar 20%
• Essay 20%
• Tutorial paper 10%
• Opinion article 10%
• Tutorial and seminar journal 10%

24 lectures and up to 26 hours of tutorials and guest seminars

BIOL2161, CHEM1201