Dairy farmers welcome avian influenza funding

Australian Dairy Farmers (ADF) has welcomed the Federal Government's announcement today of an extra $95 million in preparedness funding for the H5 strain of avian influenza.

ADF President Ben Bennett said: "Biosecurity is a critical issue for the viability of our industry and we are pleased to see the Federal Government is on the front foot with additional Government funding."

In particular, the support of enhanced surveillance to ensure timely detection and response if the disease enters and spreads in animals within Australia, and strengthening of preparedness and response capability to mitigate impacts for the production sector are welcome.

Mr Bennett said he understands that an incursion is likely to impact wild bird populations unfortunately also placing the poultry industry at risk. Any incursion of the H5 strain would be significantly less likely to impact the dairy sector.

"However, given the crossover of a rare strain of the virus to dairy cattle in the United States, and in very rare cases a small group of workers with minor symptoms, we are taking the H5 strain of the virus seriously.

ADF and the broader dairy sector have been working on an industry-specific response plan in conjunction with Animal Health Australia and other agriculture industries.

Mr Bennett said: "In Australia we are fortunate to have rigorous and robust biosecurity and food safety systems and regulations which protect our industry and consumers. We have the added advantage of forewarning and learning from what has occurred in the United States.

"We are working closely with industry and government to further strengthen our biosecurity and ensure we've the right support in place. In particular, farmers need help to bolster on farm biosecurity and surveillance measures to assist early detection and reporting.

"We also welcome support for increased testing to ensure strain variation identification, and preparation for potential losses, including proper quarantine, decontamination and disposal of milk and impacted birds," he said.

Mr Bennett said all Australian dairy farmers need to familiarise themselves with the industry's extensive biosecurity plans and protocols and review on-farm biosecurity measures.

"We know the arrival of spring migratory birds is increasing the risk of avian influenza arriving on our shores, making it more important than ever to make sure on-farm biosecurity practices and processes are up to scratch.

"All farmers should keep the biosecurity hotline number close to hand. Any suspicious cases of sick birds (wild or domestic) should be reported for analysis.

"Australian Dairy Farmers will be continuing to keep a close eye on the situation, helping ensure the industry is aligned and prepared."

The biosecurity hotline is 1800 675 888.

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