Producers impacted by short-term quarantine for Bovine Johne’s Disease (BJD) in Queensland can now claim up to $20,000 assistance,the State’s agriculture minister John McVeigh said yesterday.

Producers whose properties were in quarantine for two to six months may now qualify for the assistance, he said.

“The new Short-term Assistance Program bolsters the existing payments that have been in place since 2013,” Mr McVeigh said.

“To date, more than $1.44 million in BJD Assistance Scheme payments have been made to 73 owners of cattle affected by movement restrictions.

“A further $1.02 million has been paid to 145 cattle owners under the BJD Supplementary Payments Program – bringing total assistance payments to nearly $2.5 million.”

In a media release detailing the new assistance package, Mr McVeigh said the LNP government had listened to industry and was pleased to announce the assistance for producers quarantined for shorter terms.

“Concerns were raised by a small number of producers who were quarantined for less than six months and not eligible for the supply chain assistance program which was designed to help producers in long-term quarantine.

Producers who may be eligible for the additional payments can apply to QRAA on 1800 623 946 orwww.qraa.qld.gov.au

BJD is a notifiable disease under legislation and all suspect cases should be reported.  If BJD is suspected on your property, do not move or cull suspect cattle. Isolate the animals and contact Biosecurity Queensland on 13 25 23 or a private veterinarian.