Biosecurity is of paramount importance to protect Tasmania's primary industries and brand, which is why the Hodgman Liberal Government has invested an additional $6.9 million in biosecurity initiatives.
New draft legislation released for public comment today will enable us to better respond to the current and future biosecurity risks our State is exposed to.
The Biosecurity Bill 2017 will streamline seven existing Acts into one piece of framework legislation to manage weeds, plants, livestock, vermin, seeds and livestock.
Enshrining the principle that biosecurity is a shared responsibility, the Bill will define reasonable standards of care and behaviour when dealing with potential biosecurity risks.
Further, the Bill provides legally enforceable powers to prevent, eliminate or minimise any identified biosecurity risks posed by people and/or businesses.
Industries wanting a greater role will be offered accreditation, certification and auditing through approved biosecurity programs.
Following consultation through a position paper and a Future Directions statement, the consultation draft of the Biosecurity Bill 2017 will be open for formal feedback until 2 June 2017.
For more information on Biosecurity Bill 2017 go to dpipwe.tas.gov.au/biosecurity/about-biosecurity-tasmania/biosecurity-legislation-review.
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