National Farmers Federation welcomes stronger biosecurity powers

The National Farmers’ Federation welcomes todays decision by Secretary of the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Andrew Metcalfe AO, in his capacity as The Director of Biosecurity to establish Biosecurity Response Zones at international airports.

Enacted under section 365 of the Biosecurity Act 2015, these zones will improve the powers of biosecurity officers to direct passengers to use foot mats and other biosecurity control measures such as the cleaning of shoes when traveling through International airports.

“Farmers do not want any stone left unturned when it comes to stopping FMD or any other threats from reaching our shores,” NFF President Fiona Simson said.

“We again urge all returning travelers to comply with Australia’s biosecurity rules and to follow the direction of our hardworking frontline biosecurity officers.”

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