Some of the latest developments in plant biosecurity science will be on display at the Plant Biosecurity CRC 2015 Science Exchange on the Sunshine Coast.
Senator for South Australia Anne Ruston, who today will officially open the 2015 Science Exchange, said plant biosecurity was of paramount importance to Australia.
"Australia’s relative freedom from pests and diseases is, and will continue to be, a crucial advantage for the nation’s farmers," Senator Ruston said.
"A robust, effective and efficient biosecurity regime which meets current threats and anticipates emerging problems will become increasingly important in the future.
"The Coalition Government is absolutely committed to improving Australia’s biosecurity regime. In addition to developing and passing the new Biosecurity Act 2015 to replace the old Quarantine Act 1908, the Agricultural Competitiveness White Paper commits the Government to an additional $300 million in biosecurity spending.
"This includes $200 million to improve biosecurity surveillance and analysis, $50 million to boost Australia’s emergency pest and disease eradication capability, and $50 million to provide farmers with better tools and control methods against pest animals and weeds."
Senator Ruston commended the work of the Plant Biosecurity CRC.
"The PBCRC has been closely involved with the National Fruit Fly Strategy, recently completing a new research, development and extension plan, and with international partners is undertaking significant work in stored grain technology, drones for biosecurity crop surveillance and social networking tools for remote pest and disease identification," she said.
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