Biosecurity regulatory fees and charges ramp up for importers from 1 July 2023
The Federal Government is changing the charge structure for Australia’s biosecurity system and as a result, charges for importers will in some cases increase beyond an average of 28%, and as a result will raise an additional $35 million in revenue in 2023-24 These changes are part of a $1.03 billion sustainable funding package that […]
Tiny ants are experts when it comes to hitchhiking across the planet
A study into improving biosecurity for unintentionally introduced species has involved recording 146,000 instances of ant stowaways They might be tiny, but a recent study has found that ants are no small fry when it comes to hitching a human-assisted ride to different pockets of the globe. A team of scientists from Australia, Japan and […]
Foot and Mouth disease and African Swine fever has brought biosecurity vigilance to the fore
As part of the Australian Government’s response to the spread of animal diseases in the region, the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry has increased its surveillance and testing of meat and other animal products, both at the border and through targeted checking of retail outlets. Some pork products have been removed from supermarket shelves […]
Making trade easier for agricultural producers and exporters cost $137.7 million
The Federal government has committed an additional $137.7 million over four years, making it easier and cheaper for local businesses to import and export goods. The announcement came today in the Mid-Year Economic and Fiscal Outlook. The aim is to revamp Australia’s trade systems by simplifying regulation, reducing duplication, and creating a one-stop digital shop […]
Horse racing becomes an election issue between coalition and Greens
The Minister for Agriculture and Northern Australia has thrown his support behind Australia’s horseracing industry. It comes after reports that the Greens will take a policy platform, to the next election that will implement a national ban on horse racing. Minister Littleproud said the horseracing industry in Australia deserves our support not to be torn […]
Melbourne Cup defender among 13 international runners subjected to a double quarantine
Horses arriving from overseas for the 2021 Spring Carnival racesunderwent 14 days’ pre-export quarantine overseas and also must complete 14 days’ post-arrival quarantine at government approved facilities. Last year’s Melbourne Cup winner Twilight Payment is among 13 international runners to complete a minimum of 14 days’ mandatory post-arrival quarantine before embarking on their spring carnival […]
Abattoir workers get a $450,000 grant to spot biosecurity problems
Over $450,000 will be spent on training to improve emergency animal disease capability at domestic abattoirs. Minister for Agriculture and Northern Australia David Littleproud said the grant recognises the central role of abattoir staff in the animal health system. “Abattoir staff play a critical role in biosecurity by inspecting animals and carcases for signs of […]
National eDNA testing program being rolled out in a $7 million spend
The Federal Government is spending $7 million in a national program that sets the scene for game changing eDNA technology testing capability and revolutionise the frontline of biosecurity. This initiative will formalise how biosecurity officers would use this powerful eDNA technology. It is expected when frontline staff and scientists use eDNA testing to identify pests […]
Biosecurity Innovation Program expressions of interest process now open
Bright ideas are wanted as the Biosecurity Innovation Program is open for expressions of interest. Minister for Agriculture and Northern Australia, David Littleproud said the program was about finding new ways to create a stronger national biosecurity system. “Australia exports food, fibre and forestry products to markets all over the world, but our ability to […]
Sacred Bodhi tree’s journey to Oz has been 2300 years in the making
In a cultural first for Australia, a sapling from a sacred tree revered by the world’s Buddhist community has been imported from Sri Lanka in what can only be described as a great biosecurity success story. Head of Biosecurity at the Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment, Andrew Tongue, said the sapling is from […]