Boost to biosecurity paw patrol

 
NSW Farmers has welcomed the Australian Government’s new round of investment in strengthening biosecurity at our borders.

NSW Farmers Biosecurity Committee chair Ian McColl said a $66.6 million boost to biosecurity coffers would help protect Australia’s agricultural sector against emerging pests and diseases. 

“We’re pleased to see Minister McKenzie’s ongoing commitment to dealing with the threat of African swine fever and other biosecurity risks,” Mr McColl said.  

“This investment is a welcome response to our call for increased resources to protect our livelihoods. It will increase our capacity to detect and respond to risks at the border through additional personnel, detector dogs, and new technology.” 

Mr McColl said NSW Farmers welcomed the government’s commitment to further increasing funding for biosecurity through the biosecurity import levy.

“NSW Farmers recently called for the Australian Government to prioritise this levy, so we’re glad to see that it’s still on the table. We urge all parties involved in consultation to work together in good faith to find an appropriate revenue mechanism.”

“In an increasingly connected world, new biosecurity risks are emerging through significant increases in trade, greater numbers of air and sea passengers, and growing demand for air freight. We need to ensure sustainable funding to meet these challenges.” 

The announcement also provides some comfort to pork producers concerned about interruptions to trade, confirming that the government will pursue regional zoning to allow pork exports to continue should African swine fever reach Australia.

“The global supply of pork meat has taken a significant hit from this disease. We need to ensure that we can maintain continuity of trade and retain market access for our high-quality pork products.” 

Date: Thursday 12 December 2019
Media Contact:  Michael Burt  | 0428 228 988 | [email protected]