Cattle Council of Australia has welcomed the Federal Government’s commitment of another $200 million for improvements to biosecurity and traceability systems.
Cattle Council President Lloyd Hick said the investment was timely with the increased threat of exotic diseases such as Foot and Mouth Disease and Lumpy Skin Disease.
“Our front line of biosecurity needs to be properly funded, and this a good step in the right direction,” Mr Hick said.
“The threat of exotic animal diseases continues to escalate, and biosecurity has become as a key national priority.
“This investment includes $134.1 million to bolster the biosecurity system and $11.7 million for 20 more airport detector dogs.
“Another $46.7 million will go towards traceability reform to ensure traceability is consistent across all livestock species and jurisdictions.
“This would be a critical tool in the event of a disease outbreak as it would let us rapidly identify and isolate the bulk of affected animals while underpinning market access for Australian meat and dairy products.”
While the additional investment in these important measures is welcomed, Mr Hick said the Federal Government and industry must work together to ensure long-term sustainable funding and resourcing, not decisions made from year to year.
“Our world-class biosecurity system is a foundation to high living standards in Australia,” Mr Hick said.
“Not only does it protect the food supply – but also our environment and community’s health.
“Biosecurity threats will not be going away any time soon and the Federal Government should acknowledge this with ongoing funding.
Mr Hick also welcomed an $8.1 million investment in seaweed feed additives that cut methane in cattle production by up to 90%.
“We need to make this technology available to producers as soon as possible,” Mr Hick said.
“We know these dietary supplements work, cutting methane emissions while boosting productivity.
“This investment will be a big boost in making these game-changing feed additives readily available.”