THE Federal Government has released a public discussion paper seeking ideas on a long-term sustainable biosecurity funding model.
The paper looks at all risk creators for the Australian biosecurity system, alongside possible funding arrangements and investments to support operations in the longer term.
Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Murray Watt said this paper is timely given the heightened risk for several biosecurity threats, such as foot and mouth disease, lumpy skin disease and varroa mite.
The Australian grains industry has long considered the movement of container cargo as a primary risk to the sector, as they have the capacity to convey pests like khapra beetle and also plant diseases.
Grain Producers Australia (GPA) has long been an advocate for a more equitable funding arrangement to pay for measures to protect the industry from overseas pest and disease incursions.
GPA chair Barry Large said in a statement that he welcomed the Federal Government’s commitment to consult the sector on this issue.
“We clearly support Minister Watt’s commitment to start a new process and properly consult with industry and other stakeholders on sustainable biosecurity funding,” Mr Large said.
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