AN industry leader is being sought to guide future policy direction for the Australian red meat industry’s integrity systems.

SAFEMEAT – a partnership between the red meat and livestock industry and government to ensure the production of safe and hygienic red meat from the farm to the consumer – is seeking a Chairperson for its soon to be formed Policy Group.

The Policy Group will provide SAFEMEAT Partners with advice on the three industry owned elements of the red meat integrity system – the National Livestock Identification System, the Livestock Production Assurance program and LPA National Vendor Declaration (LPA NVD).

SAFEMEAT Chair Ross Keane says Australian red meat is sold in more than 100 countries throughout the world, and these markets are underpinned by a trust in the safety and hygiene of the product.

“Maintaining that trust is not something that is left to chance. Our system of food safety measures, quality assurance and traceability from paddock to plate guarantees the integrity of our red meat industry.”

The independent Chair will play a vital role in facilitating effective consultation and collaboration across industry in order to advise on unified policy impacting the integrity systems.

“It’s a great opportunity for an individual who wants to have a positive impact on the future of the industry. We’re looking for someone who has a sound background and understanding of the drivers within our industry – food safety and product integrity, traceability and biosecurity along with a strong strategic vision for enhancing our integrity systems,” Mr Keane says.

The Chair will also need to understand the livestock value chain, and the end-markets for our product, and have previous experience working with government stakeholders.

The establishment of a Policy Group was recommended in the 2015 SAFEMEAT Initiatives Review which sought efficiencies in the management and direction of the integrity systems.

Source: SAFEMEAT

• Further information about the role, and how to apply, can be found on the SAFEMEAT website – www.safemeat.com.au.
• Also see the advertisement for the position in Beef Central’s recruitment section