The state government has released a new framework to strengthen the state’s biosecurity systems from the paddock to our borders.
Victoria will face intensifying biosecurity risks – driven by climate change, increasing trade and travel, and changing land use – so a clear, state-wide strategy was required to ensure the state’s $20.2 billion agriculture industry remains protected.
Victoria’s Biosecurity Strategy outlines five overarching goals and 20 actions that will aim to safeguard the state against pests and diseases including foot-and-mouth disease.
The goals aim to build better partnerships with key stakeholders, strengthen the state’s capacity to prepare and respond to emergencies, and identify more ways the government can support Victoria’s biosecurity system.
The Biosecurity Strategy was formed through extensive engagement with Traditional Owners and nearly 450 stakeholders covering all aspects of Victoria’s biosecurity system – from farmers and industry groups to land managers and emergency management agencies.
Agriculture Minister Ros Spence said the system will be strengthened to respond to future challenges.
“Victoria’s Biosecurity Strategy focuses on how we can work together to manage risks and build our resilience to emerging threats,” she said.
Information: agriculture.vic.gov.au/2023-biosecurity-strategy.
