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Tasmanian Biosecurity Advisories

Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment

Latest Advisories

Subscribing to get DPIPWE’s Biosecurity Advisories is the best way you can keep yourself up-to-date and fully informed about Tasmanian biosecurity issues. Our Advisories cover topics such as changes or proposed changes to Tasmania’s import regulations, animal health and welfare, plant health, forthcoming regulation reviews and opportunities for public comment, new or emerging pest/disease risks and a range of other matters related to Tasmania’s biosecurity.


110 advisories found for Livestock.
 
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Biosecurity Advisory 29/2019 - Biosecurity Advisory Committee Announced

​The Minister for Primary Industries and Water, Guy Barnett, has announced appointments to the Tasmanian Biosecurity Advisory Committee.

The selection of the Committee followed a public expression of interest process and has been formed as an independent advisory body to the Government and Minister to help guide Government strategies and policy for biosecurity matters in Tasmania.

Members appointed to the Committee include industry leaders and experts across animal and plant agriculture, fisheries, science, environment, government, tourism and other representatives - drawn from across Tasmania.

Visit the Biosecurity Tasmania website for information on the Biosecurity Act 2019 and the Committee.​ www.dpipwe.tas.gov.au/biosecurity-act​​​

(28/11/2019)
Categories: Cropping; Freshwater pests; Gene technology; Horticulture; Invasive Species; Livestock; Marine pests; Natural environment; Pasture; Plant diseases; Plant pests; Policy and Legislation; Seeds; Timber imports; Wildlife;

Biosecurity Advisory 28/2019 - Acute bovine liver disease advice

​Acute bovine liver disease (ABLD), previously known as phytotoxic hepatitis, is a disease of beef and dairy cattle. Tasmanian livestock owners and veterinarians are being asked to be on the lookout for symptoms of ABLD in their herds, following a recent episode that is highly suspicious of ABLD on a property in northern Tasmania.

The signs of ABLD are variable. Affected cattle may be distressed, agitated, seek shade and develop sunburn on the muzzle and areas of pale skin, such as white faces, white patches, udder and vulva. Other signs may include fever, a drop in milk production and depression. Other species such as sheep and horses are not affected.

An annual grass known as rough dog's tail (Cynosurus echinatus) is often associated with cases of ABLD, however it is unknown whether the plant is directly involved or whether it is merely an 'indicator' of some other factor.

Because many cases of ABLD are associated with warm, moist weather in autumn or spring, a fungal toxin associated with rough dog's tail has been suggested as being a possible cause. To date a fungus species, Pyrenophora (previously known as Dreschlera), has been identified as a candidate however this is yet to be confirmed. There is no current evidence that the plant itself is toxic. State departments of agriculture and primary industry are currently studying cases in an attempt to identify the cause(s). 

There is no known cure for the condition. Although recovery is normally prolonged, early intervention by a veterinarian may assist with recovery by the use of medications such as anti-inflammatories, anti-histamines and zinc.
Paddocks may remain 'toxic' for variable lengths of time (hours to months) following an ABLD event. It is unknown whether 'toxic' paddocks will be 'toxic' in future years.

Management options include: (1) eating out the paddock with sheep to reduce the amount of dry standing material, (2) cultivation of high risk paddocks, (3) avoiding grazing cattle on paddocks with an abundance of dry material which have been spelled for extended periods of time, and (4) trying cattle again but with only a few animals at first to test for 'toxicity'.

Cattle should be frequently observed if grazed on 'at-risk' paddocks during 'danger' periods, particularly during autumn and spring. Cattle should be moved off the paddock immediately if any unusual signs are observed.

For further information on ABLD can be found on the Biosecurity Tasmania website, or contact your veterinary practitioner.

If you suspect a case of ABLD, contact your veterinary practitioner promptly.


(28/11/2019)
Categories: Cropping; Horticulture; Livestock; Natural environment; Pasture; Plant pests; Policy and Legislation;

Biosecurity Advisory 27/2019 - Import Risk Analysis - Pigeons and Fertile Pigeon Eggs

​A draft Import Risk Analysis (IRA) on the importation of live pigeons and their fertile eggs has been prepared by Biosecurity Tasmania.

The draft IRA is now available for public comment until 5pm Friday 3 January 2020. Public consultation is a critical component of the IRA process.

Pigeon Paramyxovirus 1 (PPMV1), the disease for which current import conditions were enacted, was detected in Tasmania in 2013. Both Pigeon Paramyxovirus 1 (PPMV1) and Pigeon rotavirus may cause a significant impact to individual pigeon owners and pigeon events. Given that these diseases are present in Tasmania, and that pigeon races across Bass Strait have recommenced, these risks are considered best managed on a flock and event basis by implementing sound biosecurity measures and/or flock vaccination under the advice of a veterinarian.

Therefore the IRA proposes that the importation into Tasmania of pigeons and their fertile eggs be amended to reflect the same requirements that have been adopted for poultry and cage birds -  that is importation without restriction, except for the requirement that imported animals appear healthy on visual inspection and be under no current movement restrictions.

Information on the IRA and how to make a submission can be found on the Biosecurity Tasmania website:

(26/11/2019)
Categories: Cropping; Freshwater pests; Gene technology; Horticulture; Invasive Species; Livestock; Marine pests; Natural environment; Pasture; Plant diseases; Plant pests; Policy and Legislation; Seeds; Timber imports; Wildlife;

Biosecurity Advisory 25/2019 - Weeds Action Fund Projects Announced

​A total of thirty four projects have been successful in obtaining funding under the Tasmanian Government's Weeds Action Fund (WAF), 'Small Grants' program. 

Weed control activities and lost agricultural production are a substantial cost to Tasmanian farmers and the Government will work closely with Mr. Ian Sauer, Chair of the Tasmanian Weeds Action Fund, to reduce the serious impact and threat of weeds across our State.

Successful projects include actions targeting serious agricultural and environmental weeds such as Paterson's curse, horehound, gorse, Spanish heath, Besom heath, African boxthorn, orange hawkweed, Parramatta grass, serrated tussock, and Chilean needle grass. 

Several projects are also targeting weed threats to wetlands, off-shore islands, such as Maatsuyker Island and islands in the Furneaux group, and weeds threatening vegetation communities such as black gum.

These projects represent the first stage of the five year Weeds Action Fund and help to ensure that landowners and the community are able to tackle in an effective way significant agricultural and environmental weeds and to reduce the cost and impact of weeds.

The Tasmanian Government Weeds Action Fund (WAF) is a ground-breaking fund with a total budget of $5 million over five years to tackle weeds that are impacting on valuable agricultural and environmental assets.

The Government is currently developing Stage 2 of the Weeds Action Fund in which the majority of the Government's $5 million commitment will roll out over the next four years.

More information on the Weeds Action Fund can be found on the Biosecurity Tasmania website.​

(20/11/2019)
Categories: Cropping; Freshwater pests; Gene technology; Horticulture; Invasive Species; Livestock; Marine pests; Natural environment; Pasture; Plant diseases; Plant pests; Policy and Legislation; Seeds; Timber imports; Wildlife;

Biosecurity Advisory 24/2019 - Public comments are invited on the proposed import of the Golden lion tamarin into Tasmania

​The Wildlife Management Branch of the Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment have received a submission for the Golden lion tamarin (Leontopithecus rosalia) species profile for consideration to import into Tasmania. 

Public comments are invited by 13 November 2019
  
Details of the species profile and risk assessment is available for viewing on the DPIPWE website at:  

(1/11/2019)
Categories: Freshwater pests; Invasive Species; Natural environment; Policy and Legislation; Wildlife; Livestock; Gene technology;

Biosecurity Advisory 23/2019 - Important Update: Proposed Property Identification Code (PIC) Reforms - submission date extended

​MPORTANT UPDATE: The closing date for submissions of public comments on the proposed property identification code (PIC) reforms has now been extended until Friday 15 November 2019. (See Biosecurity Advisory 22/2019 for more details). Please visit the website for more information: http://www.agriculture.gov.au/…/propertyidentificationrefor…​

(1/11/2019)
Categories: Cropping; Freshwater pests; Gene technology; Horticulture; Invasive Species; Livestock; Marine pests; Natural environment; Pasture; Plant diseases; Plant pests; Policy and Legislation; Seeds; Timber imports; Wildlife;

Biosecurity Advisory 22/2019 - Proposed Property Identification Code (PIC) Reforms – Important Reminder

​The Commonwealth, States and Territories are currently reviewing traceability arrangements across animal, plant and food industry sectors. This work is examining opportunities to enhance traceability systems and arrangements to help Australia more effectively:

  • manage pest and disease outbreaks;
  • manage food safety, trade and market access requirements, and;
  • address consumer interest in product sustainability, ethics and provenance.
One critical component of Australia’s existing primary produce traceability system is the Property Identification Code, commonly known as a PIC.  A PIC is a unique code assigned to one or more properties or businesses that are involved with activity along the primary produce supply chain. 

PICs have been used in the livestock sector for many years as part of the National Livestock Identification System (NLIS).  In Tasmania, PICs are assigned by Biosecurity Tasmania following an application process. 
As one component of the broader traceability review, governments are currently examining PIC arrangements with a view to implement a national harmonised property identification system across our primary production sectors.  

These reforms are focused on improving the locational aspects of traceability, harmonising the business rules used to assign PICs and extending the benefits of PICs to other primary production sectors.  For example, the mandatory inclusion of the plant sector is new from a national perspective, although in Tasmania many properties engaged in plant production may already have PICs.

The need for PIC reform has been recognised and strongly supported by the many system participants involved in the recent discussions about Australia’s future traceability requirements.  Now you have an opportunity to provide input on these proposed important reforms.

For more information, and to have your say, please visit the Commonwealth Government Property ID reforms portal:

Please note that the opportunity for feedback closes on the 1 November 2019.

(21/10/2019)
Categories: Cropping; Gene technology; Horticulture; Invasive Species; Livestock; Natural environment; Pasture; Plant diseases; Plant pests; Policy and Legislation; Seeds; Timber imports; Wildlife;

Biosecurity Advisory 20/2019 - Biosecurity Advisory Committee – Chair and Members - Expressions of Interest close 5pm 7 October 2019

​A reminder that Expressions of Interest for the position of Chair and members of the new Biosecurity Advisory Committee (BAC) to be established under s267 of the Biosecurity Act 2019 (the Act) will close at 5pm Monday 7 October 2019.

The BAC will provide advice to the Minister and Secretary on any matter related to biosecurity, in particular:
  • the requirements of a comprehensive and effective biosecurity system for Tasmania, and necessary linkages to other biosecurity systems (national and international); 
  • opportunities to improve industry and community awareness of biosecurity;
  • opportunities to improve collaboration in achieving improved biosecurity outcomes including preparedness for biosecurity emergencies; and
  • any other biosecurity related matter referred to the Committee by the Minister or the Secretary.
The Committee will comprise a Chair and a membership comprising the following:
  • a representative of wild fisheries industries;
  • a person with relevant knowledge and experience in science, industry and community liaison and education;
  • a person with relevant accounting, economic or strategic planning expertise;
  • a person with public administration expertise at both the State and local government level;
  • a representative of animal-based agricultural industries;
  • a representative of plant-based agricultural industries;
  • a representative of aquaculture industries;
  • a representative of tourism industries;
  • a representative from environmental organisations;
  • a community member; and
  • a State Service employee.
Noting a member may satisfy more than one of the statutory membership criteria.

Those interested need to provide information that outlines their suitability for appointment to the role of Chair or member of the BAC.  Further information on the position of Chair and Member and on the selection process can be found at: https://dpipwe.tas.gov.au/bac​​

Female candidates are particularly encouraged to apply, in accordance with the Tasmanian Government’s Women on Boards strategy, which aims to improve gender equity and increase female representation on its boards, statutory bodies and committees.

Expressions of Interest can be lodged at: EOI Biosecurity Advisory Committee, Biosecurity Tasmania – Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment, GPO Box 44, Hobart, Tasmania 7001, or emailed to: John.Harkin@dpipwe.tas.gov.au by 5 pm, 7 October 2019.

(2/10/2019)
Categories: Cropping; Freshwater pests; Gene technology; Horticulture; Invasive Species; Livestock; Marine pests; Natural environment; Pasture; Plant diseases; Plant pests; Policy and Legislation; Seeds; Timber imports; Wildlife;

Biosecurity Advisory 19/2019 - Boosting biosecurity with more inspectors

​Protecting Tasmania from unwanted pests and diseases will be further strengthened with the recruitment of new Biosecurity Tasmania staff to work at the borders to do more inspections of high risk produce and imported freight and goods.

Funding for these positions has been made available by the partial cost recovery of inspection fees for imported produce and freight as outlined in the Regulatory Impact Statement (RIS) that was recently released for public comment.  

The RIS provided complete information on proposed changes to fees for specific inspection services, an assessment of the known impacts of the changes and the ‘Securing our Borders’ initiatives that will be supported to strengthen Tasmania’s biosecurity systems.  Following the public consultation period these changes will come into effect on 2 October 2019.

As the first phase of the ‘Securing our Borders’ initiative Biosecurity Tasmania is seeking to recruit additional staff as follows:
  • 19 Biosecurity Inspectors in the south, north and north-west, to cover the higher risk import season, with a mix of fixed-term part-time positions and casual positions.
  • The recruitment of a Risk Planner to prioritise the resources of Biosecurity Tasmania to the highest risk areas.
Following the Queensland fruit fly incursion, inspection procedures for high-risk fruit fly produce have been strengthened and these roles will further assist in addressing the potential risks of imported produce, freight and goods.

​​Biosecurity Tasmania will continue to work with Approved Quarantine Place operators, importers, exporters and logistics providers to ensure that any operational disruptions are kept to a minimum once these changes come into effect 

The Government has also acted to improve biosecurity preparedness and emergency response capability as part of the ‘Securing our Borders’ initiative with the appointment of a Coordinator (Biosecurity Emergency Preparedness, Response & Recovery). This position will work with industry to boost our emergency response capacity through biosecurity education, training and support programs.

Details of the new positions and recruitment details can be found on the Tasmanian Government recruitment website: https://www.jobs.tas.gov.au/

(27/9/2019)
Categories: Cropping; Freshwater pests; Gene technology; Horticulture; Invasive Species; Livestock; Marine pests; Natural environment; Pasture; Plant diseases; Plant pests; Policy and Legislation; Seeds; Timber imports; Wildlife;

Biosecurity Advisory 18/2019 – Draft Cat Management Amendment Bill 2019 – public submissions closing soon

​​Public comments on the draft exposure bill of proposed amendments to the Tasmanian Cat Management Act 2009 remain open and will close on 4 October 2019. This is your opportunity to have your say on this important matter.

Cats are an important part of our lives as companion animals and are very much part of families and the Tasmanian community.

The proposed amendments seek to improve levels of responsible cat ownership and welfare, provide for the effective management of cats, and reduce the potential negative impacts of cats on the community, agriculture and the environment in Tasmania. 

At the end of the consultation period, stakeholder feedback will be considered and the Bill will be finalised.

Submissions may be lodged either by: 

or
Mail:   Office of the General Manager
           Biosecurity Tasmania 
           Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment
           GPO Box 44
           Hobart TAS 7001

Submissions will close at 5.00 pm on 4 October 2019.

For further information on how to make a submission, please visit the website at:

(26/9/2019)
Categories: Cropping; Freshwater pests; Gene technology; Horticulture; Invasive Species; Livestock; Marine pests; Natural environment; Pasture; Plant diseases; Plant pests; Policy and Legislation; Seeds; Timber imports; Wildlife;

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