Australia readies to counter potential biosecurity attacks

The federal government is putting $27 million into strengthening its response to a biosecurity attack.

A chicken is vaccinated against the H5N1 avian influenza virus. Source: EPA

The Turnbull government is putting $27 million into strengthening the planning and response to a national health emergency, should one be triggered by bioterrorist attack or contagious disease outbreak.

Health Minister Greg Hunt says while the likelihood of such a threat is low, the government is taking steps to ensure the nation is prepared.

"The security and safety of every single Australian is our number one priority," Mr Hunt said in a statement on Sunday.