11 December 2023
We have released the final report on the review of the risk of lumpy skin disease via fresh (chilled and frozen) skeletal muscle meat derived from bovines. All comments on the draft report for this policy review have been considered in the finalisation process. The final report has now been published on our website.
Biosecurity risks of Lumpy skin disease (LSD) in fresh beef
In response to advances in available scientific information concerning the presence of LSD virus (LSDV) in bovine skeletal muscle, the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry announced on 26 June 2023 that it was reviewing the risk of LSD entering Australia through imported beef and beef products. All comments on the draft report for that review have been considered in the finalisation process. The final report is now available on our website.
Existing entry requirements established in 2017 require approved countries supplying fresh beef and beef products to Australia to certify country freedom from LSD. The final report concludes sufficient published science exists, consistent with international standards, to demonstrate that transmissibility of LSD through bovine skeletal muscle that has been produced in accordance with Australian and international standards achieves Australia’s appropriate level of protection without LSD-specific conditions.
The final report advises that certification of country freedom from LSD to cover importation of fresh beef derived exclusively from bovine skeletal muscle from approved countries is unnecessary on biosecurity grounds. The final report does not recommend similar change to current entry requirements for offal and other beef products from approved countries on the basis of the available evidence.
The Biosecurity Import Conditions database (BICON) will be updated to reflect the change and allow for trading partners to propose additional certification for this specific product to ensure that trade can continue should their animal health status for LSD change. However, as current biosecurity risks are effectively managed under existing requirements, all existing import permits and trade arrangements for fresh beef and beef products remain valid. This approach ensures the continuity of trade. It also manages the biosecurity risks in accordance with Australia’s appropriate level of protection and meets international trade obligations.
To receive information and updates on biosecurity risk analyses subscribe to Biosecurity Risk Analysis Animal on the department’s website. Subscribers will receive biosecurity advice notices and other notifications about animal biosecurity policy.
Dr Peter Finnin
Assistant Secretary
Animal Biosecurity
Email: animalbiosecurity@aff.gov.au