The paper, released in October, said without valuable resources, Australia runs the risk of damaging its reputation as an exporter of ‘clean’ agricultural products.

The document also called for consistency between states/territories in the allocation of resources for biosecurity surveillance and extension activities. 

AIA National chairman Andrew Bishop said achieving regulatory consistency, while also ensuring the system isn’t overly restrictive, was essential. 

“Without this approach, we end up with confusion within national industries, placing variable burdens on industry sectors,” Bishop said.

“However, the paper also acknowledges evidence-based regional differences may justify some variations in biosecurity regulations.”

AIA’s biosecurity policy called for evidence-based import risk assessments, country of origin quality assurance and ongoing industry preparedness. 

“Australia’s excellent reputation as an exporter of quality agricultural products will be at risk if a high level of biosecurity is not maintained,” Bishop said.

“The consequences of a reduced biosecurity status include exclusion from international markets, reduced export commodity prices, increased production costs and damage to our rural industries. 

“This would not only negatively impact farm gate prices, the Australian economy and future new market opportunities, but could also have significant negative environmental, social and health consequences.”

You can read the Biosecurity Policy Paper on the AIA website here.