AVA President Dr Julia Nicholls said that veterinarians are involved at all levels of Australia’s quarantine and biosecurity systems.

“In large-scale outbreaks such as the 2007 equine influenza outbreak, an army of government and private veterinarians is called on to take part in the emergency response.

“Strong, effective protection against imported pests and diseases is critical to our agricultural industries, as well as to the wellbeing of Australia’s animals and people.

“We welcome these bills which incorporate critical changes to the way we approach biosecurity risk, including advances in technology and transport which the previous legislative framework did not cover,” she said.

The AVA submitted comments on the consultation draft of the new legislation to replace the century-old Quarantine Act 1908.

“Our submission called for a more seamless biosecurity system which these bills will provide”

The Biosecurity Bill 2014 is supported by four other bills that are designed to help ensure the smooth transition from the Quarantine Act 1908.

For more information on the Biosecurity Bill 2014 and the supporting legislation, here.