Released 12/06/2018
The ACT Government wants to improve the way it manages biosecurity so the Territory can better respond to threats from invasive pests and diseases, Minister for the Environment Mick Gentleman said today.
“The ACT Government is planning to modernise the ACT’s biosecurity legislation so we can detect and respond quickly to biosecurity threats and help Australia’s biosecurity system remain effective and sustainable,” Minister Gentleman said.
“Pests, diseases and other biosecurity threats do not respect borders. They directly threaten our environment and agriculture industry and we need to be ready to hit the ground running to identify and stop any pest or disease incursions before they balloon out of control.
“We want to hear from the community about how we can better protect our environment and agriculture industries through the development of new biosecurity legislation.”
“The proposed legislation will allow us to more effectively control and manage new and existing threats.
“For example, varroa mite could decimate the honey industry and the red imported fire ant would make outdoor living extremely uncomfortable if they spread into our parks and gardens.
“Pest animals such as foxes, rabbits and wild dogs are considered to be the primary cause of the loss of many native terrestrial species. At least 100 introduced plants that have become established in the wild in the ACT are highly invasive and pose a substantial threat to our natural environment.
“Our current legislation needs to be updated and made consistent with other states. It needs to incorporate the national message that biosecurity is a shared responsibility of governments, industries and individuals.
“Community consultation starts today and will be open for eight weeks,” Minister Gentleman said.
For more information on the proposed framework for the legislation and how to have your say, go to https://www.yoursay.act.gov.au/
- Statement ends -
Mick Gentleman, MLA | Media Releases
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