'Animal biosecurity' means protecting the economy, environment and community from negative impacts of diseases and pests that affect animals. The NSW Animal Biosecurity and Welfare Strategic Plan ('Strategic Plan') guides priority activities to safeguard the economy, environment and community from diseases and pests that affect animals as well as improve animal welfare outcomes.

Currently animal biosecurity priorities in NSW are delivered by Biosecurity NSW in cooperation with Livestock Health and Pest Authorities (LHPAs) and the agricultural extension services of the Department of Primary Industries (DPI), along with other government, industry and community stakeholders including private veterinarians. The working relationship between DPI and LHPAs ('DPI-LHPA Alliance') is particularly critical in the implementation of consistent state and national animal biosecurity and welfare programs.