Farm invasions are a biosecurity risk

The introduction of new on-the-spot trespass fines recognises the risk of biosecurity breaches caused by animal activists invading family farms.
 
NSW Farmers has welcomed moves from the NSW State Government to amend biosecurity legislation and introduce on-the-spot fines of $1000 and further biosecurity fines of up to $220,000 per person or $440,000 for corporations.
 
“Biosecurity is critical to farmers, as it ensures our market access and minimises disease risk to provide high quality welfare outcomes,” NSW Farmers President James Jackson said.
 
“The biosecurity risks posed by trespassers has been long overlooked and the Governments action today demonstrates their commitment to assisting farmers protect their biosecurity.”
 
“NSW Farmers has always said a range of activities are required to combat the risks that these activists pose.”
 
Today’s announcement from Agriculture Minister Adam Marshall comes as the federal parliament is set to consider new laws this week that create an offence for using the internet to “incite” trespass on farms.
 
“We applaud the action by the NSW and Commonwealth governments. The current legislative framework is not effective and new laws are needed to address these crimes,” Mr Jackson said.
 
Date: 22 July 2019 
Media Contact:  Michael Burt  | 0428 228 988 | [email protected]