Strengthening and modernising NT agriculture through key reforms
The Territory Government is strengthening the Territory’s biosecurity and pastoral land regulations to safeguard key industries against evolving pest and disease threats with amendments to the Livestock Regulations.
Coming into effect from 22 May the changes follow targeted industry stakeholder consultation, with the amendments including updates to the Livestock Regulations 2009 which strengthen the Territory’s biosecurity system, to respond to threats such as foot-and-mouth disease, lumpy skin disease and Varroa mite.
Additionally, changes to the Hemp Industry Regulations 2020 removes licensing barriers, allowing NT industrial hemp growers to produce crops for medicinal products, including cannabidiol oils.
Amendments to the Pastoral Land Regulations 1992 enables sub-leasing for scientific equipment and data facilities, while updates to the Plant Health Regulations 2011 clarifies treatment requirements for plants and fruit entering the NT.
The amendments strengthen regulations on the movement of bees and beehives to protect the Territory’s emerging honeybee and agricultural pollination industries from the spread of Varroa mite.
Further reforms modernise regulations around the feeding of pigs to mitigate risks associated with diseases such as foot-and-mouth disease and African swine fever.
For more information go to the NT Government website.
