Biosecurity

In reply to the Hon. J.S. LEE (Deputy Leader of the Opposition) ().18 June 2024).

The Hon. C.M. SCRIVEN (Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development, Minister for Forest Industries):

I am advised

The commonwealth department conducted a risk assessment in 2022 in response to Indonesia experiencing a widespread uncontrolled outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD). This led to enhanced risk management measures to manage the then higher risk, including travellers from Indonesia undertaking specific actions, such as the use of sanitation foot mats.

The commonwealth has been continuously and carefully monitoring the FMD outbreak situation in Indonesia and reviewing these enhanced measures. Upon review in December 2023, the commonwealth concluded that the disease situation had stabilised to the extent it is comparable with other countries where FMD is present. Therefore, risk settings could also be returned to those in line with other countries where FMD is present.

Measures that will continue include:

Real-time risk assessments undertaken by commonwealth biosecurity officers at the border including identifying post-arrival indicators of risk and targeted questioning of travellers

Application of biosecurity profiles to identify high-risk travellers, mail and goods

Referral of all high-risk passengers and mail for biosecurity screening

Continued screening with 2D X-ray capability and trials with the enhanced 3D X-rays

Expanded deployment of detector dogs to all major international airports and mail facilities

Targeted communication and engagement activities to increase awareness of biosecurity risks and import requirements.

Additionally, Australia's long established border arrangements remain in place and have proven effective in managing the risk of FMD from countries where the disease is present.

The commonwealth constantly monitors risk management in the context of the global and regional animal health situation to continue to manage the risks to Australia's favourable health status. They retain the option to implement enhanced measures again in the future should the disease risk warrant such action. The state government will continue to work with the commonwealth government in response to any change in incursion threat.