The Allan Labor Government is bolstering Victoria’s biosecurity system with funding for projects that help prevent, monitor, and control pests and diseases in livestock.

Member for Ripon Martha Haylett has today welcomed the announcement that the 2024 Livestock Biosecurity Funds grants program is now open and encouraged everyone to apply.

With the state, and our region, continuing to face new and emerging biosecurity risks – driven by climate change, increasing trade and travel, and changing land use – innovative new solutions are critical to protecting Victoria’s $20 billion agriculture industry.

The Livestock Biosecurity Fund grants program supports projects that adopt new and emerging technologies to respond to livestock biosecurity issues, encourage collaboration, and deliver quantifiable benefits to the livestock industry.

Agriculture Victoria and the state’s livestock compensation advisory committees developed the grants program which is funded through duties generated by the sale of cattle, sheep, goat and pigs and their carcasses in Victoria, and using beekeeper registration fees.

Previously funded projects included the Victorian Farmers Federation’s popular producer-led Stock Sense Livestock program, which received $2.19 million over the past four years. The program helps Victorian livestock producers adopt animal health and production practices that improve animal welfare and Victoria’s biosecurity status.

Another project supported through the program is the Electronic National Livestock Identification System (NLIS) (Sheep) tags. This has helped maintain the low-disease status of Victoria’s sheep and goat industries and protects Victoria’s reputation in domestic and export markets as a supplier of wholesome meat and dairy products.

Applications close on 15 April. To apply, visit agriculture.vic.gov.au/livestockbiosecurityfunds.

Quote attributable to Member for Ripon Martha Haylett

“Biosecurity is fundamental to the wellbeing and prosperity of our agricultural sector. We need to be proactive and innovative when it comes to new approaches to tackling emerging biosecurity risks.”