Sustainably funded system must prioritise investment in readiness.

DairyNZ wants to see a more integrated and sustainably funded biosecurity system as the government looks to modernise the Biosecurity Act 1993.

The government announced public consultation on proposed amendments to the Biosecurity Act in September, in a bid to strengthen the biosecurity system.

DairyNZ chief executive Campbell Parker said the current system is fragmented and is funded through multiple levies, each with its own legislative provisions and administration.

“The different programmes often have the same stakeholders involved and this duplication is part of the frustration experienced by dairy farmers.

“We would like to see a more integrated and sustainably funded biosecurity system that prioritises investment in readiness to make sure we are prepared for any future biosecurity events,” he said.

In its submission, DairyNZ also highlighted the proposed changes to the Government Industry Agreement (GIA) for readiness and response and provided feedback on proposed changes to compensation settings and eligibility under the Act.

“New Zealand needs to invest in appropriate system-wide preparedness for major biosecurity events to reduce the impact on the sector,” Campbell said.

“Our current Biosecurity Act is over 30 years old, and these new proposed amendments will look to modernise the act.

“Change is needed and DairyNZ welcomes the opportunity to work with the government to make sure the voices of dairy farmers are heard.

“We remain focused on talking to our farmers around the country to share updates, information, answer questions, provide examples and represent their views during this important consultation period.”

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