Biosecurity Advice 2016-37 - Intergovernmental Agreement on Biosecurity Review Draft Report

Release today of the Intergovernmental Agreement on Biosecurity Review Draft Report (Draft Report) is the next step in the independent review of Australia’s biosecurity arrangements, including the underpinning Intergovernmental Agreement on Biosecurity 2012 (IGAB). The review is being led by a panel comprised of Dr Wendy Craik AM (Chair), Mr David Palmer and Dr Richard Sheldrake AM.

The Draft Report follows the release of a Discussion Paper in May 2016 (Biosecurity Advice 2016/18) and consultation across the country between May and August 2016. The panel visited each jurisdiction, and gathered information from a wide range of participants in the national biosecurity system, representing the broad range of views and perspectives from governments, peak industry and community bodies, researchers, businesses and individuals. In addition, more than 65 written submissions were received—with over half coming from industry representative bodies or organisations. The panel has drawn heavily from the views and information provided for its Draft Report.

The Draft Report sets out 40 draft recommendations aimed at strengthening the national biosecurity system over the next five-year period, to be advanced by governments, industry and other parties. These recommendations outline the system-wide improvements needed in the short and medium term, including under a future IGAB.

The panel thanks all those who have contributed so far and acknowledges the wealth of knowledge and expertise across the national system, and now welcomes constructive comment from interested parties on the proposals, ideas and requests for feedback outlined in the Draft Report to inform the panel’s Final Report.

Submissions are due by 5pm AEDT Monday 27 February 2017.

Further information on making a submission is detailed in the Draft Report. It is intended that a Final Report will be provided to Australian agriculture ministers in May 2017.