Pork producers supplying South Australian abattoirs are being encouraged to participate - through their herd vet - in a biosecurity survey to inform and improve business continuity in the event of a disease outbreak.
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Pig Industry Biosecurity Officer Chelsea Dossett is managing the survey and said it was being conducted as part of the biosecurity partnership between Pork SA and Biosecurity SA, a division of the Department of Primary Industries and Regions.
"This type of project is even more important in light of the recent outbreak of Japanese Encephalitis, as well as the ongoing threat of African Swine Fever, which has reached neighbouring countries," she said.
"Producers play a critical role in the safety and security of the supply chain.
In an outbreak of ASF, Ms Dossett said it is possible that a significant proportion of SA's regular pig movements may only be able to continue under a permit issued by PIRSA.
This includes movements to slaughter, between properties and for breeding.
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"To receive a permit to move pigs, farms will need to provide a level of assurance to PIRSA that pigs are free of disease and that good biosecurity is in place. Abattoirs will also require this assurance," she said.
"Participating in the survey will help identify gaps in biosecurity at the herd and industry level.
"This will provide information to PIRSA and industry about ways they can assist producers and vets to be better prepared to respond."
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