Emergency Animal Disease Preparedness

Emergency Animal Diseases are those which are brought in from other countries (exotic diseases) or new diseases that emerge in Australia. The introduction of an exotic animal disease or pest into Australia could devastate the economy. Trade overseas and within Australia would be affected, jobs would be lost, and animal industries might be changed forever.

If you suspect an emergency animal disease contact your local veterinarian, stock inspector or phone the freecall Emergency Disease Watch Hotline - 1800 675 888.

RDPIFR veterinary officers and stock inspectors undertake training and participate in workshops to maintain preparedness in case of an emergency animal disease incursion. Veterinarians gain first-hand experience in recognising and diagnosing diseases exotic to Australia when they attend courses at the Australian Animal Health Laboratory in Geelong. Australia's preparedness includes a coordinated national response plan for the control and eradication of emergency animal diseases. The Australian Veterinary Emergency Plans (AUSVETPLAN) and other information is available from the Animal Health Australia website.

The Agnote Swill Feeding explains that exotic animal diseases may be introduced if contaminated food is illegally fed to pigs. To read the swill feeding agnote, go to the Animal Management Agnotes page on this website.

Remember "Look. Check. Ask a vet." Phone the Emergency Disease Watch Hotline on 1800 675 888 if you see unusual signs of disease in your animals. Early detection is our best defence!

Useful Information

• Information Sheet: Foot and Mouth Disease 
• National Pests and Disease Outbreaks 
• Australian Biosecurity CRC for Emerging Infectious Disease