GRAIN imports into Australia will only be permitted if there are high confidence levels biosecurity risks can be managed, the Department of Agriculture and Water Resources said in a statement on Friday.

The Department said grain imports have not yet commenced, but it shared the views of stakeholders that upholding Australia’s biosecurity is the first priority.

“Australia has strict processes and a long-established policy to ensure any future imports of grain for stockfeed do not compromise our vital biosecurity status,” the DAWR statement said.

“The department only permits imports if we are confident the biosecurity risks can be managed.”

The department has recently held an information session to engage with industry and government stakeholders on how the associated biosecurity risks would be managed.

It said well-established controls and strict import conditions are in place to manage the biosecurity risks associated with imported grain for stockfeed.

“Each import application is thoroughly assessed based on the latest scientific information. This includes an assessment of the pest and disease status of the country of origin and biosecurity risks associated with the supply chain.

“If the risks can be managed and an application is approved, the department conducts regular monitoring to ensure the import conditions are being met.

“The department appreciates engagement from industry and other stakeholders on this significant matter. It further demonstrates the shared understanding of the importance of biosecurity for Australia.

Source: DAWR. For more information on the DAWR website click here