Key facts
UNE unit code: AGRO514
*You are viewing the 2026 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 1 - On Campus
- Trimester 1 - Online
- Armidale Campus
- Yes
- No
- Yes
- 6
Unit information
Australia faces growing challenges in the area of plant biosecurity due to increasing trade, travel and tourism. The introduction of plant diseases, pests and weeds has potentially serious consequences for agricultural industries as well as natural ecosystems and our natural resources base.
This unit provides you with in-depth knowledge of contemporary issues relevant to biosecurity of plant-based industries, food security and natural ecosystems.
You will explore topics of critical importance to biosecurity in Australia and overseas in our increasingly globalised world. These include pathogens and bioterrorism, insect pests, noxious weeds, transgenic plants, quarantine, border security, phyto-sanitary regulations and risk assessment.
The unit also offers you the opportunity to focus on your area of interest by completing two case studies, honing advanced skills in critical analysis and scientific communication.
Offerings
For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.
| Teaching period | Mode/location |
|---|---|
| Trimester 1 | On Campus, Armidale Campus |
| Trimester 1 | Online |
*Offering is subject to availability
Intensive schools
There are no intensive schools required for this unit.
Enrolment rules
Notes
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- demonstrate an advanced and integrated understanding of the subject by identifying important issues surrounding plant biosecurity;
- analyse critically and assess risks attached to the introduction of plants and plant based products eg fruits, vegetables and flowers, and communicating the outcome to others using written and verbal formats;
- critically evaluate the options to regulate and manage the movement of plants, plant pests and pathogens and transmit this knowledge to others using verbal and written formats;
- demonstrate an advanced and integrated understanding of the subject by describing, in detail, biosafety issues related to food security; and
- demonstrate an ability to undertake research and apply established theories to a body of knowledge or practice within the discipline.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
| Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Incursion Response Plan | Yes | 20% | All offerings | Short answer report developing a risk management and incursion response plan for a biosecurity pest. |
| Invigilated Incursion Response Plan - Assurance Task | Yes | 40% | All offerings | Invigilated short answer quiz on developing a risk management and incursion response plan for a biosecurity pest. There is a supervised exam which you are enrolled. The exam will be offered online with supervision via webcam and screen sharing technology. Coordinated by UNE Exams Unit. To pass this unit, you must achieve a minimum cumulative total of 50% across Invigilated Incursion Response Plan - Assurance Task, and Oral Case Study Management Plan - Assurance Task, and meet all other passing requirements in the unit. |
| Oral Case Study Management Plan - Assurance Task | Yes | 40% | All offerings | Oral presentation defending and responding to questions on a management plan to prevent biosecurity. Duration: approximately 20-25 minutes. To pass this unit, you must achieve a minimum cumulative total of 50% across Invigilated Incursion Response Plan - Assurance Task, and Oral Case Study Management Plan - Assurance Task, and meet all other passing requirements in the unit. |
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Textbook information will be displayed approximately 8 weeks prior to the commencement of the teaching period. Please note that textbook requirements may vary from one teaching period to the next.
Excellence in experience, equity and employability
Five Stars,
20 Years in a Row
UNE is the only public uni in Australia awarded 20 straight years of five stars for Overall Experience.
Good Universities Guide 2007-2026
Five Stars for
Social Equity
UNE rates among the top 20% of universities nationally and is #1 in NSW for Social Equity.
Good Universities Guide 2026
Five Stars for
Graduate Employment
UNE rates among the top 20% of universities for Graduate Full-Time Employment and Starting Salary.
Good Universities Guide 2026 (Undergraduate)
Diamond-Rated Digital Learning
UNE’s leadership in digital learning earned the highest ‘Diamond’ rating in a peer review.
ASCILITE TELAS 2025
Studying online
At UNE we know it takes more than just being online to be a great online university. It takes time and experience. We pioneered distance education for working adults back in the 1950s, so we’ve been doing this longer than any other Australian university.
We understand the challenges faced by busy adults studying at home. We know that a vital part of online study is your engagement with the learning community. Communication with your classmates, teaching staff and university support staff will enhance your study experience and ensure that your skills extend beyond the subject matter. UNE’s teaching staff are experts in their field which is why UNE consistently receives five stars from students for teaching quality, support and overall experience.*
*The Good Universities Guide
Stay connected
Join our mailing list for updates and helpful tips to support your study plans. You can unsubscribe at any time.
- •Course updates and important changes as they happen
- •Key dates for intakes, deadlines, and enrolment steps
- •Application guidance, including supporting documentation requirements
- •Next steps and what to expect after you apply or enquire
Ready to stay in the loop?
GET IN TOUCH
Why study with us?
UNE’s flexibility and support made the transition smooth and helped me find a great balance between academic responsibilities and personal growth. It was the perfect place to study education while staying true to my rural roots.
What happens next?
Got a question about a course you'd like to study? Contact our Future Student Team for help.
2026 applications are now open. The application process only takes 20 minutes to complete. Don’t delay, apply now!
Your start date is based on the study period you choose to apply for.
