The Queensland Farmers’ Federation has welcomed the release of the review into Queensland’s biosecurity capability.
The group says the report, along with the State Government’s interim response, were the first steps in addressing and improving the current system.
The review makes 32 recommendations.
QFF said the majority of these were based on well-known and agreed gaps within the biosecurity system.
“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,” CEO Ruth Wade said.
However, she said the QFF was disappointed that “appropriate funding” had not yet been secured to deliver the reforms.
“It is essential that government now steps up to the plate and funds the recommendations,” she said.
“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.”
