Helping Victorian Farmers access Interstate Fodder
As dry conditions persist across the region, Agriculture Victoria is stepping up to help farmers source much-needed fodder from interstate.
A free support service is now available to assist suppliers, transporters, and producers in navigating the Plant Biosecurity Permit (PBP) process, ensuring fodder can be imported safely and efficiently into Victoria without compromising the state’s biosecurity.
This timely initiative is in direct response to the ongoing drought conditions having created serious challenges for Victoria’s livestock industry, particularly a critical shortage of hay and fodder - so farmers are needing to look interstate for source supplies.
According to Chief Plant Health Officer Dr Stephen Dibley, all fodder imports, except those from NT and Tasmania, require a PBP to mitigate biosecurity threats such as Annual Ryegrass Toxicity, Green Snail, Red Imported Fire Ants, and Electric Ants.
“Given the ongoing tough conditions across the state, Agriculture Victoria is prioritising permit applications for fodder to make sure essential transport can be fast tracked,” Dr Dibley said.
Once an application is submitted, the Agriculture Victoria team will respond within two business days to review the request, and importantly, inspection fees for interstate fodder will be waived.
For those looking to apply, full details are available on the Agriculture Victoria website, or applications can be submitted via email to market.access@agriculture.vic.gov.au.
Additional support services for farmers under pressure remain available year-round, including:
Local government rate relief programs
We encourage all members of the Food & Fibre network to share this information with their contacts to help ensure no producer is left without support during this challenging season.
For the most up-to-date information on drought support and seasonal conditions, visit agriculture.vic.gov.au/dryseasons or call 136 186.
