Biosecurity a winner in RLPB reform
Rural Lands Protection Boards (RLPBs) will take on an ever greater role in safeguarding the state’s agricultural industries as a result of major reform to modernise and streamline the RLPB system.
Chairman David Lister said a strengthened biosecurity focus would mean improved services, shorter response times and greater consistency in reporting and compliance.
“There had been a lot of talk recently about the reduction in the number of Boards and issues such as boundaries but as the implementation phase begins it is important to focus on the outcomes of the reform process.
“One of the most significant outcomes for ratepayers will be an enhanced frontline public animal health and pest animal management system to maintain healthy, marketable and productive livestock.
“This will be achieved through a number of changes including the appointment of senior veterinary officers (SVOs) with clearer paths of responsibility and authority.
“Under the new system there will be 12 points of contact rather than 47 which will shorten response times and improve the lines of communication, particularly in the event of an emergency animal disease outbreak.
“In addition to having field responsibilities, SVOs will also formulate and implement regional animal health plans providing greater continuity to how animal health activities are coordinated and carried out across the state,” David Lister said.
This role will ensure rangers and District Vets (DVs) spend more time in the field.
“The way data is collected and distributed will also be streamlined with RLPBs having input and access to the soon to be implemented BioSIRT computer system, which will manage and record emergency and routine incidents of animal disease.
“Programs such as this one are important to ensure the consistency and quality of information particularly in satisfying the requirements for overseas trade,” David Lister said.
In 2007 RLPB vets made more than 10,000 on farm visits to diagnose problems, provide advice and respond to animal disease outbreaks and RLPB rangers coordinated 6000 pest animal control programs.
The importance of animal health services has been highlighted in recent times with the response to the equine influenza outbreak.
The reform process including animal health and pest animal services are one of many issues being discussed at input and information sessions for Boards currently being run across the State.
Further details are available at www.rlpb.org.au
MEDIA CONTACT: Kelly Ingham (02) 6391 3242 Mob 0428 465 378