Using the basic human values framework to facilitate lasting biosecurity behaviour change

There are numerous challenges facing approaches to strengthen an Australian biosecurity system that is both responsive and effective, and that support positive, protective behaviours. These challenges include a changing climate, declining extension services and the geographic and sociopsychological diversity of the land and its people. The facilitation of identifying biosecurity practices that align with producer motivations was the driver behind this project, to demonstrate the potential for a values-based approach. Using interview data from farmers in five states, the 10 universal ordered beliefs that refer to the desirable goals of an individual: Benevolence, Universalism, Self-Direction, Stimulation, Hedonism, Achievement, Power, Security, Conformity, and Tradition, were used as a framework to compartmentalise and explain different biosecurity behaviours. Benevolence, Self-direction, and Security were found to be the principal values expressed by farmers when discussing their on-farm disease management. If the goal of agricultural endeavour is to protect the health and wellbeing of plants and animals, then this values-based framework supports a collaborative approach between stakeholders in the industry. Cautionshould be undertaken when considering mandates thatmight subvert or challenge values of Self-direction. An alternative approach could be to frame on-farm biosecurity in a way that supports choices to optimise the individual farming system.