THE state government has unveiled its new $97.3 million State Biosecurity Response Centre, a state-of-the-art headquarters for Western Australia’s crucial biosecurity operations.

The critical polyphagous shot-hole borer and Queensland fruit fly (Qfly) response teams will be among the first to operate from the new centre, with other teams to follow in stages.

The new centre will house the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development’s (DPIRD) biosecurity operations, incident response teams and diagnostics, and laboratory services to manage pest and disease threats to WA.

Located in the Canning Vale industrial area, the centre will accommodate between 200-300 staff when fully operational.

The 4ha site includes modern office accommodation, 6000sqm of warehousing, a large hardstand area for new modular laboratory buildings and car parking.

These facilities will support the state’s core biosecurity functions of surveillance, investigations, diagnostics and response activities.

Agriculture and Food Minister Jackie Jarvis said the state government recognised the importance of biosecurity operations to Western Australia.

“This new State Biosecurity Response Centre provides a modern and functional workplace for our biosecurity staff which reflects the vital work they do managing pest and disease threats to the state.

“As a priority, DPIRD’s emergency response teams will be among the first to move across followed by other biosecurity functions.

“Our government is investing significantly in biosecurity to ensure we are well placed to respond to increasing pest and disease threats and to safeguard our state’s valuable agricultural export industry.”