The Victorian Government is in the process of proposing amendments to the existing biosecurity legislation and regulations. These proposals focus on streamlining biosecurity management and operational processes to efficiently respond to detections of or outbreaks involving animal diseases, and plant pests or diseases in Victoria.
The VFF is actively involved in confidential consultations with the government to provide feedback on the suggested amendments.
As the representative body of Victorian farmers, we are committed to underlining the pivotal role the farming community plays in a defence line against persistent biosecurity threats. We continually advocate for the immediate implementation of mechanisms for preparedness funding, cost recovery, and compensation frameworks to mitigate the potential losses incurred by farmers in case of a biosecurity breach or incursion.
It is expected that the government will release an exposure draft of the Bill in late 2023.
The VFF commits to keeping its members informed on developments in consultations with the government while respecting the existing confidentiality agreements.
VFF members are being directly represented in these discussions through the VFF Commodity Policy Councils and the VFF Farming Systems Committee.