Australian Dairy Farmers has welcomed the Federal Government’s announcement of an extra $95 million in preparedness funding for the H5 strain of avian influenza.
ADF president Ben Bennett said biosecurity remained a critical issue for the viability of the dairy industry, with rare cases of cross-infection between birds and livestock having been reported.
Mr Bennett said losses to dairy farmers would be “significantly” less likely compared to the egg industry.
“However, given the crossover of a rare strain of the virus to dairy cattle in the United States, and in very rare cases a small group of workers with minor symptoms, we are taking the H5 strain of the virus seriously,” Mr Bennett said.
“We are pleased to see the Federal Government is on the front foot with additional funding.
“We know the arrival of spring migratory birds is increasing the risk of avian influenza arriving on our shores, making it more important than ever to make sure on-farm biosecurity practices and processes are up to scratch.”
ADF and the broader dairy sector have been working on an industry-specific response plan in conjunction with Animal Health Australia and other agriculture industries.
Mr Bennett said Australia had rigorous and robust biosecurity and food safety systems and regulations to protect industry and consumers.
“We have the added advantage of forewarning and learning from what has occurred in the United States,” he said.
“We are working closely with industry and government to further strengthen our biosecurity and ensure we’ve the right support in place.
“In particular, farmers need help to bolster on-farm biosecurity and surveillance measures to assist early detection and reporting.
“We also welcome support for increased testing to ensure strain variation identification and preparation for potential losses, including proper quarantine, decontamination and disposal of milk and impacted birds.”
Mr Bennett urged all farmers to keep the national biosecurity hotline number close to hand and immediately report any suspicious cases of sick wild or domestic birds.
“Australian Dairy Farmers will be continuing to keep a close eye on the situation, helping ensure the industry is aligned and prepared,” he said.
The biosecurity hotline is 1800 675 888.