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Labor federal government introduction of foot mats at international airports a step in right direction says Darren Chester

Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester said the Labor government's introduction of foot mats at international airports is finally a step in the right direction

By news@gippsland - 22nd July 2022 - Back to News

Mr Chester, who has been calling for further measures to be introduced, said Labor had failed to act with enough urgency to protect Australian farmers. "The outbreak of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) in Indonesia is a major concern for our country and we need to act," Mr Chester said.

A lot is at stake with the foot and mouth disease outbreak across Indonesia, every possible measure needs to be on the table to protect an $80 billion regional industry

Further protection measures

Mr Chester said, "The disease would be devastating to our agriculture and livestock industries as well as the nation's economy. The Victorian livestock industry alone employs 52,000 people and accounts for more than $8 billion in production value each year. We cannot risk the decimation of this industry, the jobs it provides, and the flow-on social and economic losses that would result."

Mr Chester said the government needed to consider further measures to bolster protection. "While the introduction of the foot mats is welcomed news, we must remain vigilant. Departmental briefings have advised of the disease spreading in Indonesia with it being found in 22 provinces. It is time to consider what stronger measures can be implemented, such as border controls, 3D x-ray scanners and increased screening requirements for all passengers." Mr Chester said.

"An FMD outbreak would affect us all and the industries and economy would take years to recover. Our biosecurity is at risk here and I urge the Labor government to take the necessary precautions to keep our livestock industry safe." Mr Chester concluded.

Pictures from Darren Chester MP Facebook page.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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• One Gippsland urges stronger climate action and investment to build regional disaster resilience
  One Gippsland is calling for urgent government action, investment and policy reform to strengthen disaster resilience, improve planning, and protect coastal communities facing increasing climate-related risks and rising economic costs.
• Danny O'Brien says reduced bonus helps some, but bungled energy policies and digital-only access hurt households
  The state's Power Saving Bonus has been cut from $250 to $100 and is now limited to concession card holders, leaving many Gippsland households without relief despite rising energy costs.
• East Gippsland Agricultural Sector Advisory Committee welcomes new members to strengthen engagement with farming
  East Gippsland's Agricultural Sector Advisory Committee welcomed new members, enhancing council's connection with farming communities while tackling key priorities like renewable energy, drought resilience, mental health, and pest animal challenges.
• Peri Urban Councils advocate for housing, infrastructure, and policy recognition with state government
  Peri Urban Councils Victoria met government leaders at Spring Street, advocating for housing solutions, essential infrastructure funding, and policy recognition to support rapidly growing peri urban communities sustainably.
• Gippsland showcases energy transition leadership to Australian Energy Infrastructure commissioner
  Gippsland showcased its clean energy transition during Australian Energy Infrastructure Commissioner Tony Mahar's three-day visit, highlighting coal, gas, wind, solar, storage, and community collaboration driving Victoria's evolving energy future.
• East Gippsland residents invited to author talk on Pearl Bradshaw - Princess of Hotham on 10 September 2025
  Author Stephen Whiteside will present Pearl Bradshaw - Princess of Hotham, sharing remarkable stories of resilience, adventure, and history at special East Gippsland library talks on Wednesday 10 September.
• Gippsland New Energy Conference showcases Latrobe City as Australia's leading hub for renewable energy innovation
  Latrobe City hosted the 2025 Gippsland New Energy Conference, attracting 1,000 attendees and showcasing the region's renewable energy leadership, delivering major economic benefits and fostering industry, government, and community collaboration.
• East Gippsland Shire backs $15M Bairnsdale Airport upgrade to boost emergency response and healthcare services regionally
  East Gippsland Shire Council has backed a $15 million Bairnsdale Airport upgrade, extending the runway to boost emergency response, healthcare services, and regional aviation, supported by government funding and health agencies.