Released in 2008 by the Royal Australian Mint and Australia Post this postal numismatic cover pays tribute to the ‘unsung heroes’ of Australia’s continuing development as a healthy prosperous nation celebrating the centenary of AQIS – the Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service. Seeking to protect Australia from a variety of diseases and pests that had undermined countries around the world the Quarantine Act 1908 formed the legislative basis for the quarantine of plants humans and animals. Protecting Australia’s international borders and checking millions of parcels cargo containers live imports and more AQIS plays a vital role in minimising the danger to the nation’s flora and fauna as well as its multi-billion dollar export and tourism industries.This coin provides official recognition of the vigilance and commitment of the thousands of people who have helped make Australia one of few nations on the planet to be free of the worst agricultural pests and diseases.The reverse design of the $1 features a luggage bag shaped as Australia with stickers identifying the key hazards and protection issues.
