Have your say on sustainable funding for biosecurity

The Albanese Government has released a public discussion paper seeking ideas on a long-term sustainable biosecurity funding model.

The paper looks at the benefits a strong biosecurity system has for all Australians, along with funding arrangements and investments to support biosecurity operations in the longer term.

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Murray Watt said the Albanese Government is delivering on its commitment to strengthen Australia’s biosecurity system.

“Our biosecurity system is facing increasing pressure from disrupted global trade supply chains and travel,” Minister Watt said.

“This year we have seen two highly contagious and potentially deadly livestock diseases spread through Indonesia – foot and mouth disease and lumpy skin disease.

“Australia is free of both diseases, and since their appearance, Indonesia is making good progress on getting them under control. But it’s demonstrated that we can’t afford to take our foot off the pedal and get complacent on our biosecurity.

“The October Budget includes a $134 million down-payment on the Government’s commitment to long-term, sustainable funding for biosecurity, by investing in front line staff, 20 new detector dogs and stronger defences against the threat of FMD and other diseases.

“We are also laying the foundations for a national livestock traceability scheme that delivers a fit-for-purpose, modern system to protect our valuable livestock industries.

“We know there is broad support for sustainable funding and we want to discuss with the Australian public the best way to go about that.

“I encourage everyone to look at the discussion paper and give us their views and ideas on what a model could look like.”

The Biosecurity Sustainable Funding discussion paper and an opportunity to provide feedback is available here until 21 November 2022.