From pilot to permanency – the emergence of an invigorated Livestock Biosecurity Network

Livestock Biosecurity Network (LBN) is now a subsidiary of Animal Health Australia (AHA), marking the end of a three-year pilot period and the beginning of a new phase of biosecurity education and extension for Australia’s livestock industries.

Having commenced on 1 September, this new partnership is also supported by LBN’s primary funder, Cattle Council of Australia (CCA), and is confirmation of the depth and quality of work undertaken by LBN during its three-year pilot period, said interim LBN Chair Hamish Munro.

“LBN has made real inroads into better preparing Australia’s livestock industries to manage biosecurity risks,” said Mr Munro.

“I’m very excited that LBN has completed its pilot phase and is now entering a new era – an era that will continue to see a strong focus on the importance of biosecurity for extensive grazing industries.

“The transition to a subsidiary company of AHA will allow great opportunities and synergies, particularly for the beef cattle industry, but all mixed farming operations will benefit under the new partnership model,” said Mr Munro.

LBN’s experienced Regional Managers will continue to offer first-rate services to livestock producers, equipping them with the necessary tools and information to manage biosecurity risks on-farm, such as diseases, contaminants and residues, pests and weeds and establish the highest levels of animal health and welfare practices.

“I’d also like to acknowledge the support of the CCA, Sheepmeat Council of Australia and Wool Producers Australia during the pilot phase. Without their foresight and commitment to the pilot we would not be where we are today – an industry leader in robust on-farm biosecurity practices,” said Mr Munro.

As a subsidiary of AHA, LBN will continue to work in collaboration with both industry and governments to ensure Australian livestock producers’ on-farm biosecurity practices continue to provide the evidence that supports our strong global trading position.