National Biosecurity Strategy released

AUSVEG, the peak national body representing vegetable and potato growers, has welcomed the announcement of the Australian National Biosecurity Strategy by Federal Agriculture Minister Senator Murray Watt.

The strategy is designed to protect Australia from the threat of harmful pests and diseases. It outlines six priority areas to address:

1. A shared biosecurity culture that concentrates on education and communication.
2. A highly skilled workforce equipped with the understanding of how to deal with potential issues.
3. Stronger partnerships with various groups including Indigenous Australians, environmental groups and industry.
4. Sustainable investment to identify funding needs.
5. The use of coordinated preparedness and response for biosecurity problems.
6. The integration of technology, research and data.

AUSVEG CEO Michael Coote said the industry had been waiting for such a strategy to support it with biosecurity threats and incursions.

“As we have seen recently, ensuring Australia has a strong and well-resourced biosecurity system is vital for Australia’s agriculture industry and important for the health and safety of every Australian,” Coote said.

“While we have natural advantages due to our geographical location, we cannot afford to be complacent. Recent biosecurity outbreaks in this country, including fall armyworm, serpentine leafminer and Varroa mite, as well as the ominous threat of foot-and-mouth disease just over our border, have shown the tremendous economic and emotional toll that incursions and the threat of incursions have on an industry and its members.

“The announcement of a National Biosecurity Strategy that has been agreed to by federal, state and territory ministers is welcome recognition of the ever-growing threat from foreign pests and diseases.

“AUSVEG has been a vocal supporter of a coordinated, long-term, ongoing funding model that ensures the nation’s biosecurity system is well-resourced and effective. We note that more detail is needed on the funding model to enact this strategy and we are keen to work with the government to ensure that industry’s needs are met through the new strategy.

“Our biosecurity system needs ongoing resources that are dedicated to keeping our borders safe from harmful and dangerous pests and diseases.

“The agriculture industry is working towards a target of $100 billion in value in 2030 and requires a robust and effective biosecurity system to protect crops and communities from harmful pests and diseases.”

Find out more about the National Biosecurity Strategy online.

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