NSW Minister for Primary Industries, Katrina Hodgkinson, has today released details of a proposed new approach to protecting the State’s biosecurity status.

Ms Hodgkinson said the proposed framework will bolster biosecurity measures and protect the State’s $12 billion primary industries sector and environment from pests, diseases and weeds, while slashing red tape.

“The draft framework outlines all the future legislative tools and powers needed to better manage biosecurity threats in NSW,” Ms Hodgkinson said.

“This framework will be used to form a single piece of legislation, the NSW Biosecurity Act, which will wholly or partly replace 14 pieces of existing legislation.

“The proposed changes will improve the State’s ability to manage animal and plant pests, diseases, contaminants and weeds in NSW by cutting red-tape for farmers and industry and strengthening our world class biosecurity systems.

“The NSW Liberals and Nationals recognise the need to create modern and innovative legislation that supports the national agreed principle that biosecurity is a shared responsibility among government, industries and individuals.”

Ms Hodgkinson said the release of the draft framework was the next step following the release of the NSW Biosecurity Strategy 2013-2021 last May.

“Key components of the proposed framework include an enhanced role of industry and community in preventing and minimising biosecurity threats as well as improved emergency and rapid response powers,” Ms Hodgkinson said.

“A biosecurity emergency requires swift and decisive action to protect the economy, environment and community, and this new legislation will minimise delays and reduce the impact of an emergency situation.

“It is crucial that industry has input into this new piece of legislation.

“It is important that all stakeholders understand the changes that are being proposed, particularly with respect to the roles, responsibilities and obligations of all stakeholders including government, industry and the community.”