The Australian Government is committing $1 million annually through a national partnership agreement to significantly improve Australia's national plant health surveillance system.
Minister for Agriculture and Northern Australia, David Littleproud said this was a big win for our plant biosecurity system, which protects our economy and environment.
"This commitment will enhance the national plant health surveillance program which provides early warning of high priority exotic plant pests, giving us a better opportunity to contain and eradicate them," Minister Littleproud said.
"The program also provides crucial evidence of Australia's pest free status to support trade and market access.
"The Australian Government's annual commitment of $1 million will be matched in-kind by state and territory governments.
"This landmark agreement will sustain this important program into the future and implement it as a shared responsibility with clearly defined roles and responsibilities.
"It provides a trusted, consistent and harmonised approach to reporting and sharing of surveillance information which is vital for our $13 billion horticulture and grain market exports."
"A national steering committee representing all governments will oversee the implementation of the program, ensuring it delivers national biosecurity outcomes.
"This is a great example how strong partnerships across governments can improve our national biosecurity system," said Minister Littleproud.
