This week marks National Biosecurity Week, with some government initiatives to be highlighted at Dowerin Machinery Field Days
Federal and state governments have showcased their efforts to keep Australia free from pests and diseases during National Biosecurity Week.
Running between August 25-31, the week coincides with the Dowerin Machinery Field Days which has allowed the Western Australia Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) to highlight some of its work.
“I encourage visitors to stop in at DPIRD’s display and meet with experts to discuss biosecurity programs that support our grains and livestock industries,” DPIRD deputy director of general biosecurity and emergency management Mia Carbon says.
“The animal biosecurity display offers information on reducing the risk of emergency animal diseases such as avian influenza, foot-and-mouth disease, African swine fever and lumpy skin disease.”
DPIRD’s display at Dowerin also includes activities for adults and children such as learning what to feed pigs to prevent diseases such as foot-and-mouth, along with how to set up a biosecure chicken coop to reduce avian influenza risk.
This remains topical, with the federal government providing $12 million to states and territories to bolster their response capability for an avian influenza outbreak.
This funding – which is part of a $100 million federal government investing on strengthening Australia against avian influenza – will allow for the purchase of critical equipment including mobile laboratories, drones and response trailers.
“Australia’s commitment to biosecurity is crucial when it comes to preventing the introduction and spread of pests, diseases, and weeds, both domestically and internationally,” federal environment minister Murray Watt says.
“Every Australian has a role to play in protecting our unique flora and fauna by reporting sick wildlife or anything unusual.”
Queensland’s state budget earlier this year also included funding for 100 extra biosecurity officers, with the state government saying 25 of these have either started or are in recruitment.
Their roles will include specialist veterinarians, stock inspectors, and agronomists.
“Beefed-up biosecurity protects our crops and livestock so we can protect the livelihoods of regional Queenslanders,” Queensland premier David Crisafulli says.
“Only with strong biosecurity can we reach out goal of boosting primary production to $30 billion by 2030.”
A biosecurity light projection show known as Bio Glow will also be held on Saturday night at Darwin’s waterfront.
