July 6, 2022
Nationals Leader and Member for Maranoa David Littleproud has called for “foot dips” to be installed at all Australian airports in a bid to stop the foot-and-mouth disease from entering Australia.
Foot-and-mouth disease is a highly contagious animal disease that affects cattle, sheep, goats and pigs.
In May, an outbreak of the virus was reported in cattle in Indonesia, including the popular tourist destination of Bali.
Mr Littleproud urged the Federal Government to act quickly and increase screening measures at Australia’s borders.
“Bali is a popular destination for Australians and because the disease is highly transmissible, it could be brought into our country on clothing and footwear which means there should be new biosecurity measures in place at our airports,” Mr Littleproud said.
“There should be foot dips for all travellers returning from Bali so that any trace of the disease on the bottom of shoes is stopped at the border.
“Our livestock producers need to be told explicitly that compensation is available if they spot and report any signs of the disease on our shores because if the disease comes into Australia, we will lose the genetic of our valuable livestock.
“Foot and mouth disease has not been detected in Australia for more than 100 years and now it is on our doorstep.”
Shadow Minister for Trade Kevin Hogan said the disease could decimate the livestock industry.
“If there is an outbreak on our shores, it would force a ban on red meat exports that could last for years, causing major economic losses to the livestock and meat processing sector,” he said.
