0
The Australian pig industry has welcomed $66.6 million in new funding to continue the fight against African Swine Fever (ASF).
Australian Pork Limited Chief Executive Officer Ms Margo Andrae was at Canberra Airport this morning when Minister for Agriculture, Senator Bridget McKenzie, made the announcement and said the funding would strengthen Australia’s biosecurity and increase capacity at our borders as the threat of ASF looms.
“We’re pleased the Government is taking biosecurity seriously and welcome these increased protections,” Ms Andrae said.
“Australian Pork Limited and the entire industry looks forward to working with government agencies to ensure African swine fever stays out of the country for good.”
African swine fever is potentially the biggest animal disease event the world has ever seen and it’s traveled quickly through Asia, towards Australia. It’s now less than 700 km away in Timor-Leste. There is currently no cure for ASF and millions of pigs will die if it reaches Australia.
The Australian pig industry is continuing to prepare for an incursion of ASF. Vets, scientists, Governments and other agricultural bodies across the country are refining strategies and raising awareness of how all Australians and visitors to Australia can help protect the industry and the rural communities they operate in.
“The risk from African swine fever is unprecedented,” Ms Andrae said.
“Everyone in Australia’s biosecurity system must play their part to keep this virulent and destructive disease away from Australia’s pig farms.”
December 11, 2019 - Australian Pork Limited
