The Northern Territory Government will be transitioning from the interim BJD management position of J-BAS 7 to J-BAS 6 from July 1.
In effect, cattle producers from other States selling into the Northern Territory into the live export market, the AA Company abattoir, or to bulls to seedstock clients will require a Johne’s Disease Biosecurity Plan, but it will not need to be approved or signed off by a veterinarian.
The announcement was made on Wednesday by the CEO of the Northern Territory Cattlemen’s Association, Tracey Hayes.
Ms Hayes said the NTCA had consulted comprehensively with both NTCA members, which represent over 90 per cent of the NT’s cattle herd, and the NT Department of Primary Industries and Resources and other stakeholders, to develop an informed and comprehensive industry position for the on-going management of BJD.
The announcement has been welcomed by AgForce cattle president, Bim Struss.
Mr Struss said AgForce members, and in particular seed stock producers and those that support the live export trade through Darwin, would be relieved to hear that the NT will transition from J-BAS 7 to J-BAS 6 for entry of cattle into the Territory as of 1 July 2017.
“This decision will help reduce costs for cattle producers by avoiding unnecessary testing while still recognising the importance of biosecurity planning,” Mr Struss said
“The announcement emphasises the importance of a good working relationship between NTCA and AgForce.
This decision will help reduce costs for cattle producers by avoiding unnecessary testing while still recognising the importance of biosecurity planning,
- Bim Struss
“Navigating the changes in biosecurity zone requirements has been challenging, and this decision recognises the beef industry is all about open and free trade not only from an international prospective but also within states.
“The one great positive for our Agforce members is the realisation of managing biosecurity risk on their properties.”
AgForce will continue to deliver biosecurity training days to prepare members to meet J-BAS 6 requirements.