The McGowan Government has appointed a panel to carry out a statutory review of Western Australia's biosecurity legislation, which supports the State's valuable agriculture sector and its aquatic and land-based ecosystems.
The review of the Biosecurity and Agriculture Management Act 2007 (BAM Act) will be undertaken by an independent six-member panel, chaired by Kaylene Gulich, who brings extensive expertise in public policy and financial management to the role.
Other review panel members include Dr Bruce Christie, Dr Mark Sweetingham PSM, Anna Ciffolilli, Clifford Winfield and Dr Mia Carbon.
The BAM Act sets the framework for WA's biosecurity systems, the use of agricultural and veterinary chemicals, and ensuring the safety and quality of agricultural products.
The review is a statutory requirement and will assess the operation and effectiveness of the Act, the adequacy of penalties imposed, the ability of the Act to adapt to changing environments such as climate change and new technologies, and other key matters.
As stated by Agriculture and Food Minister Alannah MacTiernan:
"It is important we get the settings for this legislation right so we have a modern biosecurity system that is ready to serve our State well into the future.
"Climate change and rising global movements continue to put our State at an increased risk of invasion from plant and animal pests, and unwanted diseases.
"The panel overseeing the review of the BAM Act includes leaders in their field and it brings together a wealth of experience in biosecurity, animal and plant health, agriculture, natural resource management, law and public policy.
"An assessment of the role and effectiveness of Recognised Biosecurity Groups will be an important part of the panel's work.
"Consultation with stakeholders will be a critical part of the review process."
