Biosecurity experts said 2020-21 saw half the number of live stink bugs arrive on Australia's shores.
Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment head of biosecurity Andrew Tongue said this season’s response was a great success.
“BMSB could cause significant damage to our crops if it were able to establish here, so it’s important to keep our biosecurity measures sound,” Mr Tongue said.
“Because these stink bugs can travel in goods shipped from risk countries, on shipping vessels and even in traveller’s luggage, it is important that we maintain our strict standards on BMSB.
“This season we had less live BMSB at the biosecurity entry points, which means our controls are working at minimising these risks.
“However, given the hitchhiker nature of this pest, we have seen increased interceptions in other pathways such as mail and air cargo.”
Brown marmorated stink bug is a threat to fruit trees, vegetable crops and ornamental trees.
“They feed on over 300 different plant species, including fruit, vegetables and ornamental plants,” Mr Tongue said.
“If these bugs were to become established in Australia, we would see less of the fruits we love on the shelf, and these bugs infesting our homes and businesses.”
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