Animal activists: On-the-spot fines come into effect in Queensland
ANIMAL activists will now face on-the-spot fines in Queensland for unauthorised entry where animals are kept, as changes to the state’s Biosecurity Act come into effect today.
ANIMAL activists will now face on-the-spot fines in Queensland for unauthorised entry where animals are kept, as changes to the state’s Biosecurity Act come into effect today.
Fines of $652.75 can now either be issued on the spot or later after further evidence is gathered by police or biosecurity officers.
Queensland Minister for Agricultural Industry Development Mark Furner said it was “a direct response to the increase in incidents”.
“Unauthorised entry to places where animals are kept can pose biosecurity risks including potential spread of diseases between humans and animals causing production losses that impact the business, supply chain and ultimately consumers,” he said.
He said the potential biosecurity harm caused by people carrying or spreading disease could be catastrophic to the agriculture industry and regional communities.
“These fines are an interim measure,” Mr Furner said.
“We will be exploring longer term changes to the Biosecurity Act 2014 in strengthening property biosecurity even further.”
The Queensland Government encourage livestock producers to ensure they are registered as a biosecurity entity with Biosecurity Queensland, have an up-to-date biosecurity management plan in place and have appropriate clear signage at the entry points to their property.
The move comes after more than 100 activists allegedly stormed a dairy and feedlot at Millmerran on the Darling Downs.
At least five people have been charged and the investigation is ongoing.
Queensland Farmers’ Federation president Stuart Armitage thanked the Government for bringing in the fines “so quickly” in response to the invasions.
“We are very worried and continue to worry about these incursions as far as biosecurity risks,” he said.
Mr Armitage said QFF will continue to work with the Government to strengthen fines.
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