The Australian Government is providing $1.1 million towards the establishment of a national traceability for all horses and will contribute to the continued progress through the National Horse Traceability Working Group.
The Minister for Agriculture and Northern Australia, David Littleproud has said that the funding would contribute towards the continued development of the service.
“Horses and maintaining their health status are part of the rural social fabric on which Australian agriculture’s continued productivity relies,” Minister Littleproud said.
“Reliable national horse identification and traceability supports good biosecurity, exports, food safety and animal welfare outcomes.”
The support from the Australian Government will kickstart practical traceability arrangements that directly benefit the horse industry and community.
“Horse traceability will safeguard our rural and regional industries and communities and the enviable horse health status on which they rely.” Minister Littleproud said.
The Minister had also stated that establishing appropriate national arrangements will also boost Australia’s trading partners’ confidence on the subject of animal welfare and will increase access for horse product exports.
“The Australian Government’s funding contribution will support the group to up the tempo on its efforts to resolve recommendations on the form and implementation of national horse traceability arrangements.”
With the prospects of future traceability for all horses, it is anticipated that it will benefit the horse industry and the welfare of horses.