Joint statement from the Red Meat Advisory Council and the National Farmers’ Federation regarding live cattle exports to Indonesia

The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) has been advised by the Indonesian Agriculture and Quarantine Agency (IAQA) that Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) has been detected in a small number of Australian cattle exported to Indonesia-after those cattle had arrived and spent some time in Indonesia.

“Australia is and remains free from lumpy skin disease, as confirmed today by Australia’s Chief Veterinary Officer,” RMAC Chairman, Mr John McKillop, said.

“The robust systems that Australia has for the ongoing monitoring of our animal disease status supports us to trade around the world.

“We respect the right of Indonesia’s technical authorities to seek relevant assurances that live cattle exported from Australia comply with their animal health requirements. This includes being free of LSD.”

NFF President, Ms Fiona Simson, said the industry and the states and territories are working closely with the Australian Government to provide the assurances sought by Indonesia’s authorities.

“In the meantime, Australian livestock products continue to be traded, including live cattle to Indonesia where the trade remains open,” Ms Simson said.

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