Blogs

Stop making excuses on biosecurity

By Steve Mudd posted 18-07-2022 11:59

  

Stop making excuses on biosecurity


NSW Farmers President James Jackson has slammed government officials for being wishy-washy on biosecurity controls such as foot baths.

The outbreak of foot and mouth disease (FMD) in Indonesia has farmers extremely concerned as it is a highly-infectious virus that would cost Australia $80 billion if it reached our shores. Export markets would slam shut, animals would be destroyed, and entire parts of the supply chain would be at a standstill if FMD made its way to Australia.

Mr Jackson said while federal Agriculture Minister Murray Watt had beefed up some biosecurity controls after pressure from farming groups, his department was looking for excuses. 

“The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry says they can’t have antiseptic foot baths at airports because a child might fall in them,” Mr Jackson said.

“Well by that rationale they should get rid of detector dogs in case a child gets bitten, or stop selling coffee in case a child gets scalded.

“It appears to me that everyone but the department is taking this seriously, and it’s time they got on with the job of keeping Australia safe from FMD.”

According to media reports on Friday, a DAFF spokesman said antiseptic footbaths couldn’t be used because some passengers didn’t wear enclosed shoes, that they were a trip hazard, that they would require extra biosecurity officers, and that they could congest airports.

“If we get FMD in Australia it will cost us $80 billion – more than the JobKeeper program – and send us hurtling towards recession,” Mr Jackson said.

“A little inconvenience at the airport to prevent such a huge threat to our economy and our farming sector is entirely sensible, and it’s important people realise the gravity of the situation.

“We cannot rely on treatment alone with FMD – prevention is the only way to keep us safe.”

*Hi-res image available on request

Media Contact: Steve Mudd | 0429 011 690 | mudds@nswfarmers.org.au 
0 comments
3 views

Permalink