Biosecurity reform

The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry is implementing reforms to Australia’s biosecurity system to minimise the threat of introduction of exotic pests and diseases that can adversely impact on our industries, people and natural environment and to enhance market access for our exports. The reform program is substantial and changes achieved incrementally, with funding considered as part of the normal budget processes.

The reform agenda focuses on building a sustainable system that manages risk across the continuum to better support consistent service delivery onshore, at the border and offshore; provides effective biosecurity risk management underpinned by sound evidence and policy; improves the efficiency and responsiveness of operations through modern legislation and technology systems; and strengthens relationships.

2012-13 Budget Announcement

The 2012-13 Budget signals the Australian Government’s commitment to continue building a sustainable biosecurity system to minimise threats to Australia’s primary production sectors, human health and the environment; with flow on effects to the wider Australian economy through faster movement across the border, protection of Australia’s unique natural assets and a more effective system which facilitates international trade and underpins Australia’s strong reputation as a reliable exporter of high-quality food and fibre.

The 2012-13 Budget provides $524.2 million in new funding for biosecurity to continue building a sustainable biosecurity system for Australia. This sees the Australian Government committing more than $1.6 billion since 2009 in Australia’s biosecurity system. The announcements in the 2012-13 Budget build on the strong progress in reforming Australia’s biosecurity system since 2008. The regulatory and business reforms underway are responsibly staged and consistent with the themes outlined in the 2008 independent review of Australia’s biosecurity and quarantine arrangements (the Beale Review), and informed by stakeholder views and previous reviews.

Further information on the announcements made by the Australian Government on biosecurity can be found on the 2012-13 Budget page.

Find out more about the reforms being undertaken to Australia’s biosecurity system 

Reform agenda

The department is implementing reforms to Australia’s biosecurity system to continue to deliver a modern system that is responsive and targeted, in a changing global trading environment.  Australia’s biosecurity system lies at the heart of Australia’s position as a trading nation. The system ensures good biosecurity outcomes through Australia’s activities as an exporter and importer of goods. The reforms being undertaken position the department to meet increasing demand and to ensure the biosecurity system is effective and sustainable into the future.  

Activities and achievements

The department is progressing a range of activities to deliver a more efficient and effective biosecurity system, with many achievements to date. These centre around the key reform themes of:

• implementing a risk-based approach to biosecurity
• managing biosecurity risk across the continuum
• strengthening partnerships with stakeholders
• intelligence-led and evidence-based decision making
• being supported by modern legislation, technology, funding and business systems.

Budget announcements

The announcements in the 2012-13 Budget build on the strong progress in reforming Australia’s biosecurity system since 2009 and provide for a smarter approach to the management of biosecurity risks. Funding for the biosecurity reform program, will be sought through the normal Australian Government Budget processes.  

Get involved

Throughout the reform process, the department has engaged, and will continue to engage with all stakeholders to ensure they are aware of the changes taking place. Stakeholders will continue to be provided with the opportunity to discuss specific areas of reform as the department progresses these key initiatives.