Biosecurity

The Hon. N.J. CENTOFANTI (Leader of the Opposition) (16:28): I move:

That this council—

1. Recognises the importance of biosecurity to South Australia, in particular with regard to the state’s primary industries, and the potential impact on production.

2. Acknowledges the significant and ongoing concerns from industry sectors regarding Biosecurity SA’s preparedness and response capability.

3. Calls on the Minister for Primary Industries to:

(a) establish an independent review into the Department for Primary Industry and Regional South Australia’s response to the tomato brown rugose virus incursion, and its capacity and capability to deal with future pest and disease incursions; and

(b) table the report of the review as well as the government’s response upon completion.

South Australia has an enviable biosecurity status. Thankfully, we are free of many diseases, pests and pathogens that are causing problems throughout North America, Europe and Asia. This is not just because we are a state on an island nation but because we have effective biosecurity measures. However, with an increase in global and personal travel, the risk of biosecurity incursions is continuously increasing.

Effective surveillance, early detection and rapid control are key to preventing the spread of animal and plant diseases. Prevention offers a much greater return on investment than containment of an incursion or, in the worst case, protection of assets should a pest or disease become endemic. That is why an effective response to an initial incursion is vital, as is ensuring that our biosecurity capability is continuously improving in response to the ongoing challenges.

So far, the recent and well-publicised outbreak of the tomato brown rugose fruit virus has led to millions of dollars in losses for major South Australian tomato growers. The incursion is still being addressed, and there is more work to do before there can be confidence that it is eradicated, and the threat is over. The businesses subject to quarantine orders have been unable to operate as work to eradicate the virus continues. A nursery business unable to trade during the quarantine requirements has shut its doors indefinitely with the loss of 30 jobs in total.

We have heard from farmers who have been negatively impacted by the biosecurity measures put in place, and while there is an understanding of the requirements for control of the current incursion, there is widespread frustration at what many see as a slow and confused response beset with poor communication. Growers have repeatedly complained to the opposition about slow return times for test results to enable market access, and businesses subject to quarantine orders have been refused official test results, with one business resorting to finding out test results via an FOI request. There are many complaints about confusing or incomplete instructions, with key communication lacking.

The minister has been questioned in both parliament and via the media multiple times regarding the department's ability to roll out equipment and staff in order to ramp up capacity of any required testing; however, the execution of this response has not given confidence to the tomato or nursery industry that it has been well managed or that any future incursions can be well managed.

The policy document from the government, namely South Australia's Biosecurity Policy 2024-25, states six areas of priority focus, and makes the commitment that, and I quote:

As South Australia works towards modernising Biosecurity legislation to protect South Australia, the Department of Primary Industries and Regions will commence the development of South Australia’s Biosecurity Strategy. The Strategy, expected to be released in 2025, will ensure South Australia has a flexible and responsive biosecurity system.

While the approach in this document seems laudable, industry representatives from a number of different sectors have raised concerns that the government and the current department structure do not have the proficiency nor operational strength or resources to respond to biosecurity threats, nor the effectiveness and expertise required to manage such situations. There seems to be a disconnect between a government plan and the reality of the application of that plan regarding an incursion response.

It is essential that the biosecurity preparedness of this state is efficient, effective, and agile. While the loss of business and the destruction of infested crops is unavoidable due to such biosecurity outbreaks, it is essential that the response contains the spread, minimises losses, and engenders confidence in the jurisdictions in charge. The recent problems suffered by growers during the tomato brown rugose virus incursion mean that many who have been impacted have little confidence in the government managing this or future incursions. Primary producers must be given confidence that response to threats such as avian influenza, foot-and-mouth disease or Xylella fastidiosa will be effectively and professionally managed.

An independent investigation into the government's response to a disease incursion is crucial for ensuring transparency, accountability, and restoring confidence within the affected industry. By conducting an impartial review, potential missteps, inefficiencies, or lapses in protocols can be identified without bias, fostering trust among stakeholders that the process is thorough and objective.

This accountability not only helps hold decision-makers responsible for their actions but also provides valuable lessons for improving future responses. Furthermore, transparent findings can reassure industry participants, partners, and the public that the government is committed to addressing shortcomings, implementing necessary reforms, and safeguarding both plant and animal health and economic stability.

Ultimately, such investigations are vital for rebuilding confidence and maintaining the integrity of government institutions, and the industries they regulate, and the minister must commit to such an investigation.

Debate adjourned on motion of Hon. I.K. Hunter.