South Australia’s ability to respond to an emergency animal disease incursion has been boosted with the passage of the Livestock (Emergency Animal Disease) Amendment Bill 2022 passed by State Parliament.
The amendments strengthen the powers within the Livestock Act 1997, adding to the suite of actions being undertaken by the State Government to ensure a comprehensive, rapid and effective emergency response, should an outbreak occur.
With the heightened risk of emergency animal diseases (EAD) in recent months including African swine fever (ASF), lumpy skin disease (LSD) and foot and mouth disease (FMD), the State Government is doing all it can to ensure South Australia is well placed to respond if required.
The amendments ensure that in the event of an EAD outbreak, inspectors will be able to construct (or require the construction of) a fence to contain livestock, disinfect machinery, take possession of available machinery to assist with livestock disposal activities, or stop work or close a place to minimise a biosecurity risk or impact.
Where an increased risk of exotic disease has been declared, powers to undertake surveillance and proof of freedom testing have been added for monitoring disease incursions or for market access purposes.
The enhanced powers will ensure South Australia can undertake testing to quickly implement any required emergency response measures to limit the rapid spread of disease and to maintain or regain market access which will be crucial in managing the economic impact to the State.