Surveillance for animal diseases and animal health information management in Australia

摘要

Australia is a major producer and exporter of livestock and livestock products. In 2008-09 the gross value of livestock industries' production was AUD 19.7 billion, with exports worth AUD 15.2 billion. Thus, trade and market access is a major focus ofsurveillance in Australia.Australia is a federation with the States and Territories responsible for animal health management and regulation, including field services and disease control. The federal (national) government has responsibility for trade and quarantine. It also playsa leadership and coordination role in national animal health policies and programmes. Industry stakeholders are increasingly involved in animal health programmes. Much of this industry involvement is managed through Animal Health Australia (AHA), a not-for-profit company whose membership includes the Australian Government, state and territory governments, major livestock industry organizations and other interested parties such as the Australian Veterinary Association. AHA manages a range of animal health programmes on behalf of the members, including national surveillance activities.