BIOSECURITY IS A SHARED AND COLLECTIVE RESPONSIBILITY — RISK CREATORS MUST CONTRIBUTE THEIR FAIR SHARE.  

A robust biosecurity system is critical for the long-term success of the horticulture industry. Biosecurity is a shared responsibility and all interested stakeholders have a part to play in protecting Australia’s economy, communities, food and fibre, environment and lifestyle from harmful pests, diseases, and weeds.

Currently, Queensland horticulture growers actively contribute to biosecurity protection through investments via R&D levy funds and contributions to emergency responses under deed agreements with Plant Health Australia. Queensland Fruit & Vegetable Growers are of the view that growers overwhelmingly bear the cost of invasive pests and diseases, despite having no control over border security. Therefore, it is the view of Queensland Fruit & Vegetable Growers that there is a need to shift a higher proportion of this burden onto both importers who are the primary risk creators of biosecurity incursions and the public, who derive the greatest benefit from access to imported products and an environment free from pest and disease.