Effective biosecurity at the enterprise and industry level is considered to be extremely important in terms of mitigating the risk of the introduction and/or spread of an emergency animal disease. This has been recognised by both inudstry and government as part of the EAD Response Agreement.

Under that Agreement, all parties are required to develop and implement a biosecurity plan/statement within their industry or jurisdiction.

All Parties to the Agreement have finalised biosecurity plans/statements which have been endorsed by all other Parties. There is on going implementation and review of these plans/statements.

Animal Health Australia has established a Biosecurity Planning Reference Group to assist in monitoring of the plans/statements. The group has a representative from extensive industries, intensive industries, the State/Territory governments, the Australian Government, the Australian Veterinary Association and the Primary Industries Health Committee.

For further information contact Duncan Rowland, phone: (02) 6203 3910, email: drowland@animalhealthaustralia.com.au

Page Updated: 2 November 2005