States called on to pay their fair share of biosecurity outlays
The Federal Government has called for the states and
territories to commit to future biosecurity funding at or above 2016-17 levels
in real terms.
Federal Agriculture Minister David Littleproud made the call
at this week’s release of Commonwealth Biosecurity 2030, which sets the future
direction for Australia’s biosecurity system.
“Commonwealth Biosecurity 2030 is our plan to address
growing biosecurity risks by making sure we have the best controls, tools,
processes and networks in place into the future,” Mr Littleproud said.
“Biosecurity is not just about the federal government – everyone needs to play their part and pay their share.”
He said the nine actions outlined in Commonwealth Biosecurity 2030 will be supported by biosecurity investment of over $400 million.
They include:
- Expanding offshore assurance arrangements and overseas supply chain integration;
- Fostering partnerships with near neighbours to build risk management capability and build engagement with international bodies;
- Increasing offshore intelligence, research and analysis of data to find the best way to plan for emerging threats; and
- Aligning funding and investment models with future needs.
The Federal Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment
will now consult with stakeholders to “develop the annual action plans to
deliver this roadmap and a national biosecurity strategy”.
Feedback closes on 30 June 2021.