National biosecurity laws to be modernised

The federal government has called for submissions on its new biosecurity laws that will crack down on disease-ridden vessels and people entering Australia.

Under the proposed measures, operators of aircraft and ships will have to provide contact details in case a passenger is found to be infectious with a contagious disease while travelling.

Aircraft will also be required to disinfect to get rid of insects, preventing the introduction of exotic pests that could carry non-native diseases, including yellow fever.

Health Minister Sussan Ley says Australia needs to be prepared and protected in the wake of global outbreaks of Ebola and other diseases in the past few years.

"It's important we are vigilant in protecting our population against the spread of pests and diseases that risk harming human health," Ms Ley said on Saturday.

The Biosecurity Act 2015 replaces and modernises the Quarantine Act 1908.

Minister for Agriculture and Water Resources Barnaby Joyce said the legislation included measures that could change or cancel the first point of entry status for operators.

"We want to hear from port operators, shipping operators, international airlines and importers," he said.

Consultation on draft legislation is open for 60 days.