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State Government to review 15-year-old biosecurity laws

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WA’s 15-year-old Biosecurity and Agriculture Management Act is being reviewed.
Camera IconWA’s 15-year-old Biosecurity and Agriculture Management Act is being reviewed. Credit: Picture: Sophia Constantine./North West Telegraph

WA’s biosecurity laws could soon be overhauled, with the State Government announcing a review of its 15-year-old Biosecurity and Agriculture Management Act.

A six-member panel has been appointed to carry out the review, which started this month and is expected to be completed by March next year.

The review will assess key matters including the operation and effectiveness of the Act, the adequacy of penalties imposed, and the ability of the Act to adapt to changing environments such as climate change and new technologies.

A report with recommendations will be handed down when the review — which is a statuatory requirement — is complete.

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A spokesman for WA Agriculture Minister Alannah MacTiernan said she would table the report in both Houses of Parliament “as soon as practicable” after it had been finalised, as required by the Act.

“The Government will consider all recommendations and potential impacts of the review prior to determining a position and implementation plan,” the spokesman said.

WA Agriculture Minister Alannah MacTiernan.
Camera IconWA Agriculture Minister Alannah MacTiernan. Credit: Shannon Verhagen/Countryman/RegionalHUB

Public policy and financial management expert Kaylene Gulich will chair the panel, with Dr Bruce Christie, Dr Mark Sweetingham, Anna Ciffolilli, Clifford Winfield and Dr Mia Carbon as members.

Ms MacTiernan said consultation with stakeholders would be “a critical part of the review process”.

“It is important we get the settings for this legislation right so we have a modern biosecurity system that is ready to serve our State well into the future,” she said.

“Climate change and rising global movements continue to put our State at an increased risk of invasion from plant and animal pests and unwanted diseases.

“The panel overseeing the review of the BAM Act includes leaders in their field and it brings together a wealth of experience in biosecurity, animal and plant health, agriculture, natural resource management, law and public policy.

“An assessment of the role and effectiveness of Recognised Biosecurity Groups will be an important part of the panel’s work.”

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