If you are based in Sydney and looking for more information, please visit IT Code Fair Sydney

Challenge Brief

Biosecurity helps protect our farms, animals, plants, waterways, and environment
from pests, diseases, weeds, and invasive species.

In this challenge, your mission is to use Minecraft Education to design and build the ultimate biosecure property for Northern Australia.

Your property could be a farm, cattle station, wildlife sanctuary, aquaculture facility,remote community,
or another agricultural property. Think about how you can protect people, animals, plants, and the
environment while creating a productive and sustainable property.

Use your creativity to solve real-world biosecurity challenges and help protect Northern Australia.

This challenge is for primary school students only (Years 3–6).

Key things to consider

Biosecurity Protection

How will you stop pests, diseases, weeds, and invasive species from entering or spreading around your property?

Animal and Plant Health

How will you keep animals and crops healthy and safe?

Sustainability

How will your property protect the environment and support local wildlife?

Water Management

How will you protect and manage your water sources?

Northern Australia

How does your design respond to the unique climate, environment, and industries of Northern Australia?

Community Safety

How will your property help protect people and communities from biosecurity threats?

Timeline

Challenge opens to entries

03 Aug 2026

Challenge closes to entries

05 Oct 2026

Winner and runner up groups are
announced and invited to CDU IT Code Fair

16 Oct 2026

Winner and runner up groups attend
the CDU IT Code Fair and receive their Award

05 Nov 2026

How to Join?

Team Up
Form a team of 1–4 students and brainstorm your ideas together.
Plan Your Build
Sketch or draw your biosecure property before building in Minecraft. Think about the layout, special features, and how your property will stay safe from pests and diseases.
Build in Minecraft
Use Minecraft Education to bring your design to life.
Present Your Project
Record a 3–5 minute video tour of your property. Explain your biosecurity features and show how your design protects people, animals, plants, and the environment.

Judging Criteria

Creativity and Innovation

Does your project include creative and original ideas?

Sustainability

How well does your design protect the environment?

Northern Australia Context

Does your design reflect the challenges and opportunities of Northern Australia?

Functionality

Is your property practical, organised, and easy to use?

Biosecurity Understanding

How well does your design protect against pests, diseases, weeds, and invasive species?

Prizes & Recognition

First place: AUD 1,500
Second place: AUD 1,000
Third place: AUD 500

Winners and runners-up will be invited as VIP guests to the CDU IT Code Fair and recognised for their achievements on November 5th, 2026. Monetary prizes are sponsored by the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry of Australia and Anima Co.

They will receive a certificates and prizes.

Good luck — let's build a safer, healthier, and
more sustainable future for Northern Australia!

For any questions or confusion, contact: gilbertofer.tanoto@cdu.edu.au