RSPCA NSW has welcomed the NSW Government’s $65 million investment in protecting Australia’s farm animals from foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) and lumpy skin disease (LSD).
FMD and LSD are caused by highly contagious viruses. An incursion of the viruses into Australia would have extreme consequences for animal health and pose unprecedented animal welfare challenges.
“No-one wants to witness the pain and suffering this may cause NSW’s farm animals, and we share the community’s concern for the wellbeing of our farmers, and those involved in farm animal industries, if FMD or LSD were to reach our shores,” RSPCA NSW chief vet Dr Liz Arnott said.
“Resourcing effective strategies to prevent, but also to prepare for, exotic disease outbreaks gives us our best chance at minimising the impacts on our animals and those who care for them.”
RSPCA NSW senior government relations manager Troy Wilkie added: “It’s reassuring to see the Perrottet Government implement these biosecurity measures, and RSPCA NSW are ready to assist Deputy Premier Paul Toole MP and Minister for Agriculture Dugald Saunders MP as we work to manage risks.”
