An evaluation of Australia’s veterinary services by the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) found Australia’s reputation as a leader in animal health and biosecurity systems is justified.

The OIE evaluation, the first in a highly developed country, found the majority of criteria measured were assessed at the highest competency level.

“The report confirms Australia’s reputation for supplying premium food and fibre to domestic and international markets and will enhance market opportunities into the future,” said Animal Health Australia (AHA) Chairman, Peter Milne.

“AHA congratulates the Department of Agriculture and Water Resources for their leadership in requesting this evaluation and thanks the jurisdictions and the Commonwealth as well as industry for their constructive participation in the evaluation process,” said Mr Milne.

“The challenge for all of us working in the biosecurity space is not to become complacent because of the overall positivity of this report. Amongst the many positives, the report does highlight areas of concern in the provision of veterinary services in Australia, including staffing and funding issues and provided suggestions to deal with any issues raised.

“Governments in Australia – often with industry participation – are already working to address many of the issues in the evaluation, often as a result of their own earlier reviews. Thorough consideration of the recommendations and resulting actions coming out of the OIE process will complement existing efforts to improve biosecurity services in a challenging financial environment,” said Mr Milne.

The legislated and operational direction for much of Australia’s agricultural sector is transitioning to ‘shared responsibility’ for biosecurity. AHA will continue to work with both industry and government to ensure Australia’s reputation as a world-leader in biosecurity and animal health continues to shine.

Source: Animal Health Australia