16 Nov 2015
The Queensland Farmers’ Federation (QFF) has welcomed the release of the independent review into Queensland’s biosecurity capability. The report, along with the Queensland Government’s interim response is a first step in addressing and improving the current system.
The review makes 32 recommendations, the majority based on well-known and agreed gaps within the biosecurity system.
QFF represent a wide variety of plant based and intensive animal industries that have a significant investment and interest in strong biosecurity in Queensland and CEO Ruth Wade welcomed the broad scale reforms recommended in the review.
“It is positive to see that many of the shortcomings of the existing biosecurity system have been identified and that the government at least in principle supports the recommendations.”
“After a seven month delay in releasing the final report and the government’s response, QFF is disappointed that appropriate funding has not yet been secured to deliver these much needed reforms.”
“It is essential that government now steps up to the plate and funds the recommendations.”
“If Queensland wants to be the preferred supplier of clean and green high quality food and fibre to the domestic and international markets we need a biosecurity system well-funded and second to none.”
“QFF is pleased to see the government agrees that industry based Best Management Practice (BMP) programs can be part of the solution. These programs have been delivering on farm biosecurity and market access ready production systems and are ready for comprehensive rollout across Queensland.”
“The concept of shared responsibility features heavily in the rhetoric, however government needs to step up and take its share of responsibility as well as providing the legal mechanisms and frameworks for industry to participate. Government cannot simply transfer its responsibilities for biosecurity to industry.”
“QFF, along with its industry members, looks forward to working with the government to ensure that the majority of the recommendations are implemented and appropriately funded,” said Mrs Wade.
The Queensland Farmers’ Federation is the united voice of intensive agriculture in Queensland. It is a federation that represents the interests of 16 of Queensland’s peak rural industry organisations, which in turn collectively represent more than 13,000 primary producers across Queensland.
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