Section 2 Outcomes and Planned Performance

Output 1.1 description

Output 1.1 contributes to the department’s outcome by promoting resource  management practices that strengthen national capacity for the sustainable use of Australia’s natural assets in a changing climate.

Administered items of Output 1.1

• Administered Item 1.1.1 Australia's Farming Future—Climate Change Adaptation Partnerships Program The Climate Change Adaptation Partnerships Program will develop mitigation and adaptation measures through collaboration with research and farming organisations, increase awareness among primary producers of options for responding to climate change and improve on-farm strategies. It is designed to complement other government initiatives
  such as the National Climate Change Adaptation Framework, Caring for our Country and other Australian Government climate change policies.
  
  Main deliverables of the program will include: research and development of practical measures to assist primary producers to manage emissions and adapt to climate change; improved information and awareness of climate change; improved on-farm climate change planning; and liaison with other agencies and governments on climate change programs.
  
• Administered Item 1.1.2 Australia's Farming Future—Climate Change Adjustment Program The Climate Change Adjustment Program (CCAP) will assist primary producers during times of hardship (for example, hardship caused by drought) by providing professional advice, training and re-establishment grants. The CCAP will assist primary producers to adjust their businesses to manage the impacts of climate change and to set goals and
  action plans to improve their circumstances, either within or outside agriculture. Grants will be provided for a financial assessment of businesses to provide primary producers with a clear understanding of their financial prospects, in the context of the future climatic (and financial) environment and professional advice, information and training to assist primary producers. Grants will provide assistance to industries to undertake strategic reviews, industry planning and capacity building and networks to implement industry based adaptation and adjustment activities.
  
• Administered Item 1.1.3 Australia's Farming Future—Climate Change and Productivity Research Program
  
  The Climate Change and Productivity Research Program funds research to assist the primary industries sector prepare for climate change through improved knowledge and performance.
  
• Administered Item 1.1.4 Caring for our Country - Landcare
  
  Landcare supports the landcare movement with a particular focus on adapting agricultural practices to the effects of climate change. This component of the Caring for our Country program, a program which is jointly administered with the Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts, specifically encourages landholders, through production focused outcomes, to undertake innovative approaches to landcare and related conservation works. The resulting collective community action improves resilience and productivity while sustainably managing the environment and natural resources.
  
• Administered Item 1.1.5 For expenditure under the Fisheries Administration Act 1991
  
  The item supports and monitors the Australian Fisheries Management Authority in its stewardship of Commonwealth fisheries resources, particularly its management of Torres Strait fisheries, foreign fishing surveillance and compliance, fisheries assessments and domestic fisheries enforcement.
  
• Administered Item 1.1.6 National Weeds and Productivity Research Program
  
  The National Weeds and Productivity Research Program aims to reduce the presence and impact of invasive plants on Australian agriculture, forestry and biodiversity and ensure greater integration of practical weed solutions within farming and forestry systems.

Special Appropriations of Output 1.1

• Special Appropriations 1.1.1 Fisheries Administration Act 1991, s. 80(2)
  
  The item provides funding to the Australian Fisheries Management Authority for
  Commonwealth fisheries management.

Departmental outputs in Output 1.1

• Output 1.1.1 Policy services and program management
• Output 1.1.2 Service delivery

Special Accounts of Output 1.1

• Special Accounts 1.1.1 National Action Plan for Salinity and Water Quality (National Activities) Special Account—s. 20, Financial Management and Accountability Act 1997 (A)
  
  The item funds nationally agreed projects that were approved under the National Action Plan for Salinity and Water Quality.
  
• Special Accounts 1.1.2 Natural Resources Management Account—s. 11, Natural
  Resources Management (Financial Assistance) Act 1992 (A)
  
  This item is funded by Administered Item 1.1.4.

Key Performance Indicators

2008–09 Target

• Revised National Forest Policy Statement endorsed by 30 June 2009
• Substantial completion of 9 five-year reviews of Regional Forest Agreements by 30 June 2009
• Agreement between relevant Australian Government agencies to an approach to implement illegal logging policy commitments, with publication of revised policy by 30 June 2009

• The announcement of 2008–09 competitively funded projects by 31 October 2008. All approved project payments committed by 30 June 2009
• At least 15 projects funded across at least four countries
• At least 1,000 participants receiving training

• The number of stocks of Commonwealth fisheries classified by the BRS Status Reports as ‘overfished’ or ‘overfishing’ is reduced from 19
• The number of stocks of Commonwealth fisheries classified by the BRS Status Reports as ‘uncertain’ is reduced from 51
• The cost to the department of maintaining and
  implementing policy frameworks for managing
  Commonwealth fisheries as a percentage of the Gross Value of Production of those fisheries is lower in 2008– 09 than in 2007–08

• New and innovative arrangements funded by the department result in fewer illegal foreign fishing vessel apprehensions in 2008–09 compared with 2007–08
• Uptake of enhanced monitoring control and surveillance measures by two Regional Plan of Action signatories by 30 June 2009
• Implementation of Regional Plan of Action and bilateral activities with Indonesia to address illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing in a timely manner, including:

– Evaluate and revise Indonesian in-country communication and education program and delivery methods by December 2008

• Agreement by Australia and Indonesia to prioritise MOU Box fisheries management arrangements and other shared stock arrangements through the Working Group
  on Marine Affairs and Fisheries

• Agreement to new conservation and management measures by the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission and Indian Ocean Tuna Commission by 30
  June 2009
• Agreement by the Commission for the Conservation of Southern Bluefin Tuna to a catch documentation scheme to apply to all members by 30 June 2009
• Establishment of interim management arrangements for deep sea fishing on the high seas under the jurisdiction of the Southern Indian Ocean Fisheries Agreement by
  April 2009

• Develop a plan to manage the department’s component of the Australian Government’s responsibilities under the National Biodiversity Strategy and National Vegetation Framework
• By 30 June 2009, investigate best-practice initiatives that maintain and deliver ecosystem services that give public benefit, how such systems are delivered costeffectively and what critical factors influence their uptake
• Establish baseline data through Australian Government surveys of the level of participation in Landcare and other groups to maintain or deliver ecosystem services for public benefit and the level of uptake of best-practice initiatives

• Reports on invasive species management that reflect nationally agreed priority objectives and ongoing collaboration
• Develop a plan to manage Australian Government responsibilities under the Australian Weeds Strategy and the Australian Pest Animal Strategy by 30 June 2009
• Establish baseline data to support ongoing monitoring of invasive species management by 30 June 2009
• Establish a national weeds research and  productivity program to reduce the impact of weeds on farm and forestry productivity and biodiversity by 30 June 2009

• Establish and fund research priorities identified through targeted consultation
• Establish baseline data on awareness and
  understanding of climate change
• 1,450 training and advice vouchers issued with a
  redemption rate of 75% by 30 June 2009
• 10 re-establishment grants by 30 June 2009

Output 1.2 description

Output 1.2 contributes to the department’s outcome by developing and implementing policies and programs to encourage productive, innovative and competitive portfolio industries.

Administered items of Output 1.2:

• Administered Item 1.2.1 AAA—Advancing Agricultural Industries
  
  AAA—Advancing Agricultural Industries works to improve the long-term viability of portfolio industries by developing strategic, business, investment and risk management partnerships between industries and government and increase the profile and skills of young people (aged 18–35 years), women and Indigenous people who are working in agriculture, fisheries, forestry, natural resource management and food processing industries. The program will be wound down in 2008–09.
  
• Administered Item 1.2.2 AAA—Farm Help
  
  AAA—Farm Help provides short-term financial assistance and training to farmers who are experiencing severe financial difficulty and are unlikely to obtain a loan from a finance institution, while they take action to improve their long-term financial situation by improving the financial performance of their farm enterprise, finding alternative sources of income, or re-establishing themselves outside of farming. As a result of the program, farmers improve
  their financial security, contributing to their own and industries’ long-term viability and sustainability. The Business Partnership Agreement and Program Protocol with Centrelink specify business relationships, obligations and deliverables to ensure planned program outcomes are achieved. The program will be wound down in 2008–09.
  
• Administered Item 1.2.3 AAA—Rural Financial Counselling Service
  
  The Rural Financial Counselling Service program aims to help eligible primary producers, fishers and small rural businesses identify ways to become self-reliant and better equipped to manage change and adjustment. The department manages deeds of grant with organisations delivering the counselling service and monitors and evaluates the program with the aim of continuously improving service delivery.
  
• Administered Item 1.2.4 Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals Minor Use Program
  
  The Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals Minor Use Program facilitates the uptake of permits issued by the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) for minor use of agricultural and veterinary chemicals that minimises the risk associated with the use of these chemicals
  
• Administered Item 1.2.5 Australian Animal Welfare Strategy
  
  This item supports the implementation of the Australian Animal Welfare Strategy including harmonised national animal welfare legislation, the development, revision and implementation of National Standards from existing Model Codes of Practice and the development of improved national and international animal welfare standards. In addition, the program will support an international scientific conference on animal welfare and supports research on animal welfare issues of national importance.
  
• Administered Item 1.2.6 Australia’s Forest Industry—preparing for the future
  
  The item supports the Australian forest industry by addressing issues of skills shortages, boosting exports through a Forest Industries Development Fund, building a forestry industry database, restricting the importation of illegally logged timber and preparing forest industries for climate change.
  
• Administered Item 1.2.7 Australian Seafood Industry Council
  
  The Australian Seafood Industry Council program supports the seafood industry’s capacity to engage with the Commonwealth on issues of national significance to the Australian seafood industry. The program provides improved leadership and facilitates the reestablishment of an industry peak body, including working with its membership to develop a viable funding base for future operations.
  
• Administered Item 1.2.8 Drought Assistance—Interim Income Support Payments
  
  The item provides short-term financial support to assist eligible farm and small business families experiencing a severe downturn in income due to a rare and severe event, such as severe drought.
  
• Administered Item 1.2.9 Drought Assistance—Murray–Darling Basin Grants to Irrigators
  
  The Irrigation Industries Workshop program funds industry-specific information sessions to provide irrigators across the Murray-Darling Basin with practical advice to assist them to manage their farm enterprises with reduced water allocations.
  
  The Murray–Darling Basin Irrigation Management Grants program provides grants of up to $20,000 (GST exclusive) to eligible Murray-Darling Basin irrigators to implement water management strategies that address reduced water allocations and improve on-farm practices. Irrigators must use the grant to undertake an activity from a list of approved options, including implementing water efficient crop options or reconfiguring irrigation systems.
  
• Administered Item 1.2.10 Drought Assistance—Professional Advice
  
  The item provides Professional Advice and Planning Grants of up to $5,500 (GST
  inclusive) to enable eligible farm enterprises to access professional business and financial advice and planning assistance in developing drought and risk management strategies in a written business plan. There is also scope to allow previous Professional Advice and Planning Grant clients to access an additional $2,200 to re-evaluate their plans after a minimum of six months, provided clients have applied for and used the re-evaluation grants prior to the program end date.
  
• Administered Item 1.2.11 Drought Assistance—Re-establishment Assistance
  
  The Exceptional Circumstances (EC) Exit Grant, delivered through the item, provides financial support to farmers in financial difficulty with low equity and assets to re-establish outside of agriculture. The grant provides up to $150,000 (GST inclusive) for farmers in EC declared areas and assists in setting up a new small business or contributes towards the cost of a new home. An Advice and Re-training Grant of up to $10,000 and a Relocation Grant of up to $10,000 are available to assist with the transition off the farm.
  
• Administered Item 1.2.12 FedLink Supplementation for Australian Pesticides and
  Veterinary Medicines Authority
  
  The FedLink Supplementation provides funding to the Australian Pesticides and
  Veterinary Medicines Authority to enable it to connect to the FedLink network and improve financial accountability
  
• Administered Item 1.2.13 FedLink Supplementation for Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation (RIRDC)
  
  The FedLink Supplementation provides funding to the RIRDC to enable it to connect to the FedLink network and improve financial accountability.
  
• Administered Item 1.2.14 Fisheries Research Program
  
  The Fisheries Research Program provides an increased investment in fisheries research to underpin fisheries policy development and improve and expand the assessment of the status of Australian fisheries. A key aim in 2008–09 will be to facilitate the reclassification of Commonwealth-managed species currently classified as ‘uncertain’.
  
• Administered Item 1.2.15 Fisheries Resources Research Fund
  
  The Fisheries Resources Research Fund (FRRF) provides resources for independent assessment of Commonwealth-managed fisheries. The FRRF also provides independent research, review and assessment capabilities in pursuit of long-term strategic directions for fisheries resource development.
  
• Administered Item 1.2.16 Fishing Structural Adjustment Package
  
  The Securing our Fishing Future Structural Adjustment Package delivers assistance for affected onshore businesses and fishing communities and provides the Australian Fisheries Management Authority with funding to subsidise levies and improved science, compliance and data collection.
  
• Administered Item 1.2.17 Horticulture Code of Conduct
  
  The Horticulture Code of Conduct program supports Australia’s horticultural industries to perform strongly and respond to market signals along the supply chain by increasing transparency and clarity of transactions between growers and wholesalers in the horticulture sector and providing a fair and equitable disputes resolution procedure.
  
• Administered Item 1.2.18 International Agricultural Cooperation—Live Animal Trade Program
  
  The Live Animal Trade Program supports improved welfare outcomes for animals shipped to overseas markets through the delivery of education and training, improvements to infrastructure and assistance with strategic planning.
  
• Administered Item 1.2.19 International Organisations Contributions
  
  The program facilitates the achievement of Australia’s international fisheries and aquaculture, field crops and wine trade policy objectives. The item pays Australia’s annual membership contribution to the Commission for the Conservation of Southern Bluefin Tuna, the Network of Aquaculture Centres in Asia-Pacific, the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission, the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission, the International Grains Council, International Organisation of Vine and Wine, the International Sugar Organisation and the International Cotton Advisory Committee.
  
• Administered Item 1.2.20 Land and Water Resources Research and Development Corporation (Land & Water Australia)
  
  The item disburses an annual appropriation to Land & Water Australia to undertake research and development relevant to its objectives.
  
• Administered Item 1.2.21 New Industries Development Program
  
  The New Industries Development Program assists small- to medium-sized Australian agribusinesses gain financial assistance and the business skills required to successfully commercialise new agribusiness products, services and technologies. In 2008–09 existing contracts will be completed, following termination of the program.
  
• Administered Item 1.2.22 Promoting Australian Produce Program
  
  The Promoting Australian Produce Program assists Australian farmers and the seafood industry to promote their produce by developing their marketing and promotion capacity. The program raises awareness of the premium quality of Australian produce, including fruit and vegetables, pork and seafood products
  
• Administered Item 1.2.23 Recreational Fishing Community Grants
  
  The Recreational Fishing Community Grants program delivers grants that aim to improve recreational fishing throughout Australia. Projects concerning fishing infrastructure, participation, education and awareness, fish information and marine rescue activities are funded through these grants.
  
• Administered Item 1.2.24 Recreational Fishing Industry Development Strategy Program The Recreational Fishing Industry Development Strategy Program supports enhanced recreational fishing opportunities and the development of effective leadership and representation by key industry stakeholders. As a result, improved recreational opportunities ensure the long-term sustainable management of Australia’s marine and freshwater fisheries resources.
  
• Administered Item 1.2.25 Regional Food Producers’ Innovation and Productivity Program The Regional Food Producers’ Innovation and Productivity Program will fund projects that encourage growth in regional food and seafood industries through developing new technologies, processing or production methods and boosting export market development.
  
• Administered Item 1.2.26 Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation (RIRDC)
  
  The item disburses an annual appropriation to the RIRDC to undertake research and development relevant to its objectives.
  
• Administered Item 1.2.27 Sugar Industry Reform Program 2004
  
  The Sugar Industry Reform Program 2004 provides funding for regional and community projects to assist medium and longer-term restructure of the sugar industry. In 2008–09 existing projects will be completed, consistent with finalisation of the program.
  
• Administered Item 1.2.28 Tasmanian Community Forest Agreement
  
  The item supports forestry industry development by implementing the Hardwood, Softwood and Country Sawmills programs of the Tasmanian Community Forest Agreement.
  
• Administered Item 1.2.29 Torres Strait Prawn Fisheries
  
  The Torres Strait Prawn Fisheries program will improve the information base underpinning the management of the Torres Strait Prawn Fishery and assist industry transition to new management arrangements.
  
• Administered Item 1.2.30 Exceptional Circumstances
  
  The Exceptional Circumstances Interest Rate Subsidy provides support to eligible farm enterprises and small businesses that are viable in the long term but are in financial difficulties due to a rare and severe (Exceptional Circumstance) event. The subsidy is provided at 50% of the interest payable on new and existing loans for the first year of a declaration or at 80% in the second and subsequent years and is capped at $100,000 in any 12-month period.

Special Appropriations of Output 1.2

• Special Appropriation 1.2.1 Australian Meat and Live-stock Industry Act 1997, s. 63(2)— payments to industry marketing body
  
  The item funds payments to the meat and livestock industry marketing body to conduct marketing and promotion activities for the benefit of the industry.
  
• Special Appropriation 1.2.2 Australian Meat and Live-stock Industry Act 1997, s. 64(2)— payments to the industry research body
  
  The item funds payments to the meat and livestock industry research and development body to conduct activities that improve the sustainability and productivity of the industry.
  
• Special Appropriation 1.2.3 Australian Meat and Live-stock Industry Act 1997, s. 64A(2)— payments to the livestock export marketing body
  
  The item funds payments to the livestock export marketing body to conduct marketing and promotion activities for the benefit of the livestock export sector.
  
• Special Appropriation 1.2.4 Australian Meat and Live-stock Industry Act 1997, s. 64B(2)— payments to the livestock export research body
  
  The item funds payments to the livestock export industry research and development body to conduct activities that improve the sustainability and productivity of the livestock export sector.
  
• Special Appropriation 1.2.5 Australian Meat and Live-stock Industry Act 1997, s. 64C(2)— payments to the meat processor marketing body
  
  The item funds payments to the meat processor marketing body to conduct marketing and promotion activities for the benefit of the red meat processing sector.
  
• Special Appropriation 1.2.6 Australian Meat and Live-stock Industry Act 1997, s. 64D(2)— payments to the meat processor research body
  
  The item funds payments to the meat processor industry research and development body to conduct activities that improve the sustainability and productivity of the meat processing sector.
  
• Special Appropriation 1.2.7 Australian Meat and Live-stock Industry Act 1997, s. 66(1)— Commonwealth contribution to industry research body
  
  The item funds matching Commonwealth payments to the meat and livestock research and development body to conduct activities that improve the sustainability and productivity of the industry.
  
• Special Appropriation 1.2.8 Australian Wine and Brandy Corporation Act 1980, s. 32
  
  The item funds the statutory authority to undertake marketing and development activities to promote Australian wines.
  
• Special Appropriation 1.2.9 Dairy Produce Act 1986, s. 6(1)
  
  The item manages payments to the dairy industry service body for the dairy service levy and matching Commonwealth research and development payments to conduct activities that improve the sustainability and productivity of the dairy sector.
  
• Special Appropriation 1.2.10 Dairy Produce Act 1986, Schedule 2, 83(3)—Dairy Industry Adjustment Program
  
  The item manages dairy adjustment levy payments to fund the Dairy Industry Adjustment Program.
  
• Special Appropriation 1.2.11 Egg Industry Service Provision Act 2002, s. 8(1)
  
  The item manages payments to the egg industry service body for the egg industry levy and matching Commonwealth research and development payments to conduct activities that improve the sustainability and productivity of the egg sector.
  
• Special Appropriation 1.2.12 Farm Household Support Act 1992, s. 57(3)—Exceptional Circumstances Relief Payments
  
  The Exceptional Circumstances Relief Payment assists eligible farm and small business families experiencing difficulties meet basic living expenses. Payments are delivered by Centrelink on behalf of the department.
  
• Special Appropriation 1.2.13 Financial Management and Accountability Act 1997,
  s. 28(2)—payment of refunds not elsewhere appropriated
  
  The item is a standing appropriation which enables refunds of payments collected under the department’s administered revenue items as required.
  
• Special Appropriation 1.2.14 Forestry Marketing and Research and Development Services Act 2007, s. 9(1) payments and matching payments to an industry services body and Commonwealth administration expenses
  
  The item provides for industry levies and matching Commonwealth payments to be paid to an industry body to carry out marketing and research and development that improves sustainability and productivity of forest industries.
  
• Special Appropriation 1.2.15 Horticulture Marketing and Research and Development Services Act 2000, s. 16(9)
  
  The item funds levy payments to an industry service body to carry out marketing, research and development and matching Commonwealth research and development payments that improve the sustainability and productivity of horticulture industries.
  
• Special Appropriation 1.2.16 Pig Industry Act 2001, s. 10(1)
  
  The item funds payments to the pig meat industry service body for pig industry levy and matching Commonwealth research and development payments to conduct activities that improve the sustainability and productivity of the pig meat sector.
  
• Special Appropriation 1.2.17 Primary Industries and Energy Research and Development Act 1989, s. 30(3)—Cotton R&D Corporation
  
  The item funds a research and development corporation to carry out research and development that improves sustainability and productivity of primary industries.
  
• Special Appropriation 1.2.18 Primary Industries and Energy Research and Development Act 1989, s. 30A(3)—Fisheries R&D Corporation
  
  The item funds a research and development corporation to carry out research and development that improves sustainability and productivity of primary industries.
  
• Special Appropriation 1.2.19 Primary Industries and Energy Research and Development Act 1989, s. 30 (3)—Grains R&D Corporation—Other Grains
  
  The item funds a research and development corporation to carry out research and development that improves sustainability and productivity of primary industries.
  
• Special Appropriation 1.2.20 Primary Industries and Energy Research and Development Act 1989, s. 30(3)—Grains R&D Corporation—Wheat
  
  This item funds a research and development corporation to carry out research and development that improves sustainability and productivity of primary industries.
  
• Special Appropriation 1.2.21 Primary Industries and Energy Research and Development Act 1989, s. 30 (3)—Grape and Wine R&D Corporation
  
  The item funds a research and development corporation to carry out research and development that improves sustainability and productivity of primary industries.
  
• Special Appropriation 1.2.22 Primary Industries and Energy Research and Development Act 1989, s. 30 (3)—Rural Industries R&D Corporation
  
  The item funds a research and development corporation to carry out research and development that improves sustainability and productivity of primary industries.
  
• Special Appropriation 1.2.23 Primary Industries and Energy Research and Development Act 1989, s. 30 (3)—Sugar R&D Corporation
  
  The item funds a research and development corporation to carry out research and development that improves sustainability and productivity of primary industries.
  
• Special Appropriation 1.2.24 Wool Services Privatisation Act 2000, s. 31(4)
  
  The item funds wool levy payments to the wool services industry body for research and development, marketing and innovation and matching  Commonwealth research and development payments.

Departmental outputs in Output 1.2

• Output 1.2.1 Policy services and program management
• Output 1.2.2 Service delivery

Key Performance Indicators

2008–09 Target

• 200 EC exit grants approved
• 3,000 Professional Advice and Planning Grant vouchers issued to new customers
• 1,000 Professional Advice and Planning Grant vouchers issued to existing customers
• 75% of Professional Advice and Planning Grant vouchers redeemed

• 100% of estimated eligible clients in EC regions receive EC relief payments
• 100% of estimated eligible clients in EC regions receive EC interest rate subsidies
• 100% of estimated eligible clients receive shortterm income support

• Legislative changes to agricultural and veterinary chemicals registration in place and in operation by 30 June 2009

• Development, agreement to, and publication of, the Australian Animal Transport Standards by 30 June 2009
• Reports demonstrating identifiable improvements in animal welfare  arrangements in targeted importing countries
• The completion, in collaboration with the World Organisation for Animal Health, of the Regional Animal Welfare Strategy for Asia/Oceania by 30
  June 2009

• Council to be operational by 31 July 2008
• Investment plan and performance framework finalised by 31 December 2008

• RDCs provide more transparent reporting against more measurable performance indicators, and stronger evidence of achievements against stated objectives compared to 2007–08

• Clear reporting and demonstrable evidence of increased co-investment and collaboration in priority areas in 2008–09 compared to 2007–08

• Whole-of-industry strategic plan completed by November 2008

• 30% increase in awareness in 2009 compared to 2007 survey results
• 30% increase in confidence in 2009 compared to 2007 survey results

• Multiple accredited exporters participate in wheat export market in 2008–09

• Finalisation of Dairy Industry  Adjustment Package
• Wind-up of the Dairy Adjustment Authority and removal of the Dairy Adjustment Levy by 30 June 2009

• First round of projects approved and funding agreements signed by 31 December 2008

• Irrigation Industries Workshop Program delivered and concluded by 30 June 2009
• Murray–Darling Basin Irrigation Management Grants program delivered and concluded by 30 June 2009

• Australian Government agreed positions presented at meetings of the Australia and New Zealand Food Regulation Ministerial Council in
  2008–09
• Australian Government agreed positions settled for notifications on food standards issued in 2008–09 by Food Standards Australia New Zealand

• First round of projects approved and funding agreements signed by 31 December 2008

• Agreement to a revised Recreational Fishing Industry Development Strategy by 30 June 2009
• Completion of an agreed policy position to facilitate aquaculture to be conducted in Commonwealth waters by 30 June 2009
• The introduction of cost-effective leasing arrangements of Traditional Inhabitant Boat fishing rights in Torres Strait fisheries by December 2008
• An increase from 2007–08 levels of the number of sustainable Indigenous aquaculture developments
• Agreement by stakeholders to a prioritised list of proposed amendments to Commonwealth
  fisheries legislation by December 2008
• Payment and final auditing of all recreational fishing grants by 30 June 2009
• Identification of actions to overcome key impediments to the  implementation of a marketing and promotion levy for the seafood industry by December 2008

• Conduct independent audit of the buyback package for the Bass Strait Central Zone Scallop Fishery by September 2008
• Appointment of the new commissioners of the Australian Fisheries Management Authority by
  December 2008
• Completion of a Fisheries Climate Change Action Plan and agreement by the Ministerial Council by 30 June 2009
• Completion of all grant payments and subsequent auditing under the Securing our Fishing Future structural adjustment program by 30 June 2009

• At least $40 million of investment leveraged by Tasmanian Community Forest Agreement (TCFA) grant payments
•  Establishment of a system to monitor the amount of value added Australian forest products and their contribution to exports of forest products over  time

• All approved TCFA grant payments committed by 30 June 2009
• Forest Industries Development Fund guidelines and MOUs (where relevant) agreed with participating states by December 2008
• Forest Industries Development Fund grants approved and funding  commenced by 31 March 2009

Output 1.3 description

Output 1.3 contributes to the department’s outcome by assisting Australia’s agricultural, food, fisheries and forestry industries to be more sustainable, competitive and profitable by maintaining and improving international market access opportunities. This work will remove distortions to international trade, facilitate technical assistance and agricultural cooperation in support of portfolio interests, mitigate external risks to our plant and animal health status and assist in the development of international standards for trade in portfolio products.

Administered items of Output 1.3

• Administered Item 1.3.1 AAA—International Agricultural Cooperation
  
  The International Agricultural Cooperation Program supports market access objectives through provision of targeted activities in key markets. The item is delivered through activities under departmental Output 1.3.2.
  
• Administered Item 1.3.2 Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO)
  
  The item pays Australia’s annual membership contribution to the FAO for the implementation of the FAO biennial Program of Work and Budget.
  

Special Appropriations of Output 1.3

• Special Appropriations 1.3.1 National Residue Survey Administration Act 1992, s. 6
  
  The item funds the National Residue Survey to manage a suite of residue testing
  programs that support Australian agricultural market access.
  

Departmental outputs in Output 1.3

• Output 1.3.1 Trade opportunities
  
  Activities under this output maximise market access opportunities through multilateral trade negotiations (e.g. World Trade Organization Doha Round) and through bilateral and regional negotiations (e.g. Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and forums) to resolve specific trade issues and improve market access arrangements. These activities are supported by our network of overseas agricultural counsellors in targeted countries.
  
• Output 1.3.2 International Agricultural Cooperation
  
  Activities under this output develop investment opportunities and the development of markets and bilateral trade opportunities for portfolio industries through international activities that enhance relationships at the government-to-government level.
  
• Output 1.3.3 International standards
  
  Activities under this output seek to maximise portfolio interests in international standards setting forums (e.g. Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development, OIE Animal Health Codes, International Plant Protection Convention Standards, Codex Alimentarius Commission and environmental and sustainability forums).
  
• Output 1.3.4 Delivery of effective AQIS export services
  
  AQIS maintains market access for agricultural products through Australia’s export certification system by providing export inspection, auditing and certification services to the meat, horticulture, grain, fish, dairy, live animal exports and organic industries to ensure compliance with importing country requirements. Integrity of the system is maintained through internal audit and verification processes.
  
• Output 1.3.5 Policy development and program management
  
• Output 1.3.6 Service delivery
  

Special Accounts of Output 1.3

• Special Account 1.3.1 Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service Account—s. 20, FMA Act 1997 (D)
  
  The item is funded by departmental Output 1.3.4.
  
• Special Account 1.3.2 National Residue Survey Account—s. 6, National Residue Survey Administration Act 1992 (D)
  
  The item provides the mechanism for the National Residue Survey to retain and use revenues collected from industry and other sources.

Key Performance Indicators

2008–09 Target

• Key issues identified in consultation with portfolio industries are given a high priority in negotiating positions during 2008–09
• 100% of existing markets are maintained and market access is improved through bilateral, regional and multilateral trade negotiations

• Ministerial visit to Europe and the Middle East in the second quarter of 2008–09
• Technical assistance projects completed on time and on budget in 2008–09

• Australian Government agreed strategic objectives are achieved in the development of international standards throughout 2008–09
• The number of countries that recognise the
  sustainability of Australia’s forestry production is
  increased by 30 June 2009
• Codex Alimentarius Equivalency arrangements are
  finalised by 30 June 2009
• Australia’s interests are protected in progressing Codex Alimentarius working groups’ standard on the conduct of foreign audits and the standard for certification
• International Plant Protection Convention activities
  contributing to the improved protection of plant health
  status in Australia are progressed and adopted as
  relevant by the Commission on Phytosanitary Measures
  by 30 June 2009
• Amendments proposed to the OIE Animal Health Code
  are adopted by the OIE General Session by 30 June
  2009

• 98% confidence of 100% accuracy in certification
• 98% confidence of 100% of inspection procedures are
  consistent with program design
• 98% confidence of 100% of audit procedures and
  actions are consistent with program design
• Results of the National Residue Survey residue
  monitoring plan for 2007–08 reported to and accepted
  by all industry clients and trading partners by the end of October 2008

Output 1.4 description

Output 1.4 contributes to the department’s outcome by managing the risk of entry of exotic pests and diseases to give effect to Australia’s appropriate level of protection through appropriate quarantine controls at Australia's border and managing the impact of major pest and disease incursions on Australia's agricultural, food, fisheries and forestry industries through effective post border control arrangements.

Administered items for Output 1.4

• Administered Item 1.4.1 Commonwealth contribution to the operating costs of Animal Health Australia
  
  The item funds the Australian Government membership contribution of the Australian Animal Health Council (known as Animal Health Australia—AHA). The AHA seeks to minimise the impact of diseases on Australian animal production industries and implement measures to assist in maintaining Australia’s highly favourable animal health status.
  
• Administered Item 1.4.2 International Organisations Contribution—World Organisation for Animal Health
  
  The item pays Australia’s annual membership contribution to the World Organisation for Animal Health.
  
• Administered Item 1.4.3 Other Exotic Disease Preparedness Program
  
  The Other Exotic Disease Preparedness Program enhances the veterinary community’s awareness of exotic animal diseases through the delivery of practitioner courses developed by the states and territories and through the publication of information in the Australian Veterinary Journal.
  
• Administered Item 1.4.4 Payment to CSIRO—Contribution to the operating costs of the Australian Animal Health Laboratory
  
  The item maintains and improves Australia’s capacity to prepare for, and respond to, emergency animal disease outbreaks by supporting national diagnostic laboratory capacity located at Australia’s high level containment facility, the Australian Animal Health Laboratory.
  
• Administered Item 1.4.5 Quarantine Research and Preparedness Plan
  
  The Quarantine Research and Preparedness Plan improves Australia’s preparedness to deal with biosecurity threats through a contribution to the implementation of the national fruit fly strategy, increased diagnostic capability and the development of on-farm biosecurity plans.
  
• Administered Item 1.4.6 Securing the Future: Protecting our Industries from Biological, Chemical and Physical Risks
  
  The Securing our Future: Protecting our Industries from Biological, Chemical and Physical Risks program supports capacity building, intelligence gathering and dissemination to improve Australia’s capacity and capability to respond to biosecurity threats in a more systematic, effective and timely manner and pays the Australian Government membership contribution to Plant Health Australia.
  
• Administered Item 1.4.7 Citrus Canker Eradication Program
  
  The Citrus Canker Eradication Program contributes to the national response to the 2004 outbreak of Citrus Canker in the Emerald Region of Queensland with the aim of eventual eradication.
  
• Administered Item 1.4.8 Eradication of the Red Imported Fire Ant
  
  The item provides the Australian Government contribution to the national response to the threat posed by red imported fire ants, with an objective of eventual eradication through the Imported Fire Ant Eradication Program initiated in 2001.
  
• Administered Item 1.4.9 Exotic Disease Preparedness Program
  
  The Exotic Disease Preparedness Program coordinates surveillance, research, training (especially in emerging animal diseases) and communications in relation to animal diseases of wildlife and feral animals.
  
• Administered Item 1.4.10 Other Exotic Disease Preparedness Program
  
  The Other Exotic Disease Preparedness Program provides funding for agreed activities that enhance Australia’s preparedness for exotic animal diseases, including the ongoing involvement of non-government veterinarians in national emergency animal disease preparedness and surveillance activities such as the Australian Veterinary Reserve, monitoring the distribution of economically important insect-borne viruses of livestock and their vectors through the jointly funded National Arbovirus Monitoring Program and the Australian Veterinary Practitioners Surveillance Network.
  

Special Appropriations for Output 1.4

• Special Appropriations 1.4.1 Australian Animal Health Council (Live-stock Industries) Funding Act 1996, s. 5
  
  The item funds Animal Health Australia to manage a suite of national programs that position Australia as a world leader in terms of its animal health status and systems.
  
• Special Appropriations 1.4.2 Plant Health Australia (Plant Industries) Funding Act 2002, s. 6
  
  The item funds Plant Health Australia to assist development of a plant health management system that enhances Australia’s plant health status and the sustainability and profitability of plant industries.

Departmental outputs in Output 1.4

• Output 1.4.1 Policy services and program management
• Output 1.4.2 Service delivery
• Output 1.4.3 Delivery of effective AQIS quarantine services
  
  AQIS manages the risk of entry of exotic pests and diseases by implementing appropriate quarantine controls at Australia’s international border and through post-entry plant and animal quarantine arrangements.

Special Accounts for Output 1.4

• Special Account 1.4.1 Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service Account—s. 20, FMA Act 1997 (D)
  
  The item is funded by departmental Output 1.4.3.
  
• Special Account 1.4.2 National Cattle Disease Eradication Account—s. 4, National Cattle Disease Eradication Account Act 1991 (A)
  
  The item previously funded activities related to surveillance for and eradication of bovine tuberculosis (through the Tuberculosis Freedom Assurance Program). In 2007, the bulk of the funds were transferred to a trustee to manage on behalf of the Australian cattle industry.

Key Performance Indicators

2008–09 Target

• Nationally consistent ballast water legislation is implemented by 30 June 2009
• Biofouling guidelines to manage marine pest risks are adopted by all sectors by 30 June 2009
• All jurisdictions sign the Intergovernmental Agreement to enhance AusBIOSEC by 30 June 2009

• Components of the Quarantine Research and
  Preparedness Plan (QRPP) to develop and implement a National Fruit Fly Strategy, increase diagnostic capability and commence planning to increase capacity
  for on-farm biosecurity plans are implemented,
  including:

– Establishment of a National Fruit Fly Strategy Implementation Committee by August 2008
– Diagnostic capacity and capability as a component
of emergency response preparedness for the horticulture industry is improved throughout 2008–09
– Planning to increase capacity for on-farm biosecurity plans has progressed throughout 2008–09

• The Securing the Future: Protecting our Industries from Biological, Chemical and Physical Risks Program is supported by the development of an intelligence
  network and integration of data collection systems by 30 June 2009
• Review conclusions from actual and simulated national
  responses are incorporated into response documents
  throughout 2008–09

• Australia satisfies World Organisation for Animal Health
  (OIE) criteria for equine influenza freedom by 31
  December 2008
• Australia declared free of citrus canker in January 2009
• A reduction in the number of reported nests of red
  imported fire ants during 2008–09, in line with eventual eradication strategies

• Building the capacity of regional countries to manage
  their agricultural, fishery and forestry pests, diseases
  and contaminants through conducting training
  workshops on technical standards and standard setting
  processes (SPS Capacity Building—ASEAN member
  countries) and establishing regional networks for SPS
  information exchange throughout 2008–09

• Mandated intervention and effectiveness targets are
  achieved
• 100% of exotic pests and diseases identified in goods in post-entry quarantine are treated and/or contained

Output 1.5 description

Output 1.5 contributes to the department’s outcome by providing research, analysis and tools that improve the quality of decision making by government and industry.

Administered items for Output 1.5

• Administered Item 1.5.1 Centre of Excellence for Biosecurity Risk Analysis and Research
  
  The Centre will contribute towards more sustainable, competitive and profitable primary industries by: engaging relevant skills and sciences to research and develop risk analysis methods to improve science-based decision making and aid Australian risk assessment. It will also publish and communicate research findings to raise community understanding of risk, and promote excellence in risk analysis in Australia to assist Australia to influence international standards in risk analysis.

Departmental outputs in Output 1.5

• Output 1.5.1 Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics (ABARE)
  
  ABARE provides economic analysis and research to support informed and evidencebased policymaking and monitors, analyses and reports on the economic performance of portfolio industries.
  
• Output 1.5.2 Bureau of Rural Sciences (BRS)
  
  BRS produces scientific analyses, assessments, advice and tools to underpin evidencebased policy development and decision making by government and industry.

Key Performance Indicators

2008–09 Target

• Perform the agreed workplan on schedule and within the agreed budget with greater than 80% endorsement rating of ACERA materials by the departmental ACERA
  Management Steering Committee.

• Greater than 80% of achievement of project milestones
• Greater than 80% rating of client satisfaction with project outcomes
• Greater than 80% rating of client satisfaction with timeliness of provision of advice

• Greater than 80% client satisfaction rating with project outcomes
• Greater than 80% achievement of project milestones
• High level of client demand for advice, contributions and commissioned projects consistent with or exceeds trend information of demand for services
• Timeliness of provision of advice and products to clients
  and achievement of project milestones, with client
  satisfaction rating of greater than 80%, measured through client feedback including through the client feedback survey
•  Delivery of 100% of advice and products within planned
  budgets