Pandemic + illegal imports = clear and present danger

African swine fever is one of the most significant threats to Australian agriculture and the national economy in recent memory.

 

Agriculture Minister Bridget McKenzie said despite the global pandemic, the public hadn’t got the message that meeting biosecurity requirements was non-negotiable.

 

“Between last November and May, 23 tonnes of pork has been seized at Australian borders,” Minister McKenzie said.

 

“That’s the equivalent of four pigs arriving in the country every week.

 

“Australia works overtime to keep those threats at bay—intercepting over 1000 items of pork a week at airports and mail centres—but those odds are not in our favour.

 

“A change in our biosecurity status could damage our reputation as a clean and green producer threatening our market access—and many Australians probably aren’t aware of this.

 

“That’s why Australia’s agriculture ministers agreed to promote biosecurity messages through a new national biosecurity website to improve the community’s access to information.

 

“The website is a portal directing users to relevant biosecurity information on trusted sites.

 

“If you’re an on-line shopper, an international traveller, a keen gardener or a farmer, information is tailored to your interests.

 

“The site is in an early release stage so people can explore the content that relates to them and leave feedback. I encourage all Australians to jump on and have a look.

 

“The Australian Government is serious about making sure the community has access to the information it needs to play its part in managing biosecurity threats.

 

“Not knowing the rules is no excuse for doing the wrong thing—I want people to feel knowledgeable enough to do the right thing.”