Julie Collins

Answer from Julie Collins

The minister reported that $2 million had been invested in vaccines, with over 1,800 native birds vaccinated so far. The program aimed to vaccinate nearly 10,000 birds across 162 species, including little penguins and orange-bellied parrots. She confirmed that a sealion in South Australia tested positive for H5, but noted no detections in poultry or agriculture. She urged the public to report sick birds without touching them.

Answer from Julie Collins

The minister noted that agricultural output in the basin had grown to $30 billion in 2021, up from $18.6 billion in 2011-12. On the query about the omission, she said she would consult the Minister for the Environment and Water to provide an answer.

Answer from Julie Collins

The minister confirmed the positive test in a sea lion at Seal Bay, with samples sent for confirmatory testing. She stated there were no other mortalities detected and no evidence of mammal-to-mammal transmission. She highlighted a $1.4 million investment to boost sea lion resilience and a $270 million investment for H5 bird flu response. She noted 521 bird flu events nationally and over 41,000 calls to the hotline, urging the public to report sick or dead animals.

Answer from Julie Collins

The minister reported 498 bird flu events across the country and over 39,000 calls to the national hotline, but stated there was no evidence of H5 bird flu in poultry or agriculture systems. She announced an investment of over $270 million to safeguard against H5 bird flu, including vaccine rollouts for priority bird species. She noted that over 1,500 little penguins in Victoria had been vaccinated, describing it as the world's largest vaccination program for wild birds. She emphasized that biosecurity remained the strongest defense and thanked Australians for reporting sick or dead birds.

Answer from Julie Collins

The Minister stated that the government was working with industry, wildlife experts, and states to prepare for and respond to H5 bird flu spread. She advised Australians to avoid touching sick or dead birds and to report sightings via the national bird flu hotline. The Minister noted that over 23,000 calls had been received and 270 events recorded. She highlighted efforts to strengthen biosecurity in wildlife facilities and support for vaccine testing by the CSIRO. The Minister assured that there were no detections in poultry or agricultural systems and that the risk to human health remained low.

Answer from Julie Collins; Anthony Albanese

The Minister reported that $113 million had been invested in preparedness and that vaccine rollouts were progressing based on national advice. She noted that states were prioritizing vaccinations for threatened species, including little penguins and cockatoos. A new national reporting dashboard had been launched to track H5 events, with over 250 events recorded. She emphasized that no cases had been found in farming or livestock operations and that danger to people stayed low.

Answer from Julie Collins

The Minister reported a vaccination trial for black cockatoos in Western Australia and upcoming vaccinations for little penguins in Victoria. She noted a positive test for H5 in a brown skua in Tasmania, which would be the first confirmed case there if verified. She reassured the public that there was no evidence of H5 in farming or livestock operations and that the danger to people's health remained low.

Answer from Julie Collins

The Minister detailed existing investments, including $113 million for bird flu preparedness, of which $47 million targeted habitat and biosecurity for threatened species. She noted an additional $99 million for the Saving Native Species program and $24.8 million unlocked with states and territories for ground response. She announced that vaccines had arrived in Victoria for little penguins at Phillip Island and St Kilda, with vaccinations starting next week. She emphasised that biosecurity remained the primary defence, complemented by vaccination trials for wild birds.

Answer from Julie Collins

The Minister reported 236 confirmed or suspected detections across Australia, with the majority in South Australia. She stated that experts were working to confirm detections and that more spread among wildlife was expected. She highlighted an investment of over $113 million in bird flu preparedness and announced the rollout of vaccines for priority native bird species. She reassured the public that there were no detections in poultry or agricultural systems and that the risk to human health remained low.

Answer from Anthony Albanese; Julie Collins

The Prime Minister stated that the government had worked closely with the South Australian government to provide support and research for the algal bloom. The Minister for Agriculture noted that over $113 million had been invested in preparedness for bird flu. She mentioned agreements with states and territories for biosecurity incursions. She reported two confirmed tests from Western Australia and another positive test from the CSIRO lab. She stated that local testing was underway and that she would provide further updates after consulting with the chief veterinary officer.

Answer from Julie Collins

The Minister confirmed two cases of H5 bird flu in migratory birds in the Esperance region, noting no mass mortalities or infections in poultry or agricultural systems. She stated that national biosecurity response arrangements were enacted, with Western Australia managing the on-ground response and enhanced surveillance implemented. She highlighted over $2 billion in additional biosecurity resourcing, including $113 million for H5 preparations. She urged the public to report sick birds without touching them and to contact birdflu.gov.au.

Answer from Julie Collins

The Minister confirmed that H5 bird flu was detected in a brown skua and a northern giant petrel in Western Australia. She stated there was no evidence of mass mortalities or infection in poultry or agricultural systems, and the risk to humans was low. The Minister noted that national biosecurity response arrangements were enacted, with Western Australia managing the on-ground response. She highlighted over $113 million invested in preparedness and more than $2 billion in additional biosecurity resourcing since taking office. The Minister advised the public to avoid contact with sick or dead birds and report sightings.

Answer from Julie Collins

The Minister stated that over one million tonnes of imported urea had been cleared through the biosecurity system since February. She highlighted over $2 billion in additional funding to strengthen the system. She noted that six shipments totalling approximately 209,000 tonnes of extra urea had been secured through the fuel and fertiliser security facility. She cited positive responses from Fertilizer Australia and the National Farmers' Federation, and criticized the Opposition for lacking a coherent policy on fertiliser supply.

Answer from Julie Collins

The Minister stated that the capital gains tax changes would commence on 1 July 2027 and affect only profits realised after that time. She emphasized that small-business exemptions would apply to many farmers, noting that ABS data indicated nine in ten agriculture, forestry, and fisheries businesses would be eligible for these discounts. The Minister dismissed the opposition's claims as scare campaigns.

Answer from Julie Collins

The Minister restated that the capital gains tax amendments would commence on 1 July 2027 and affect only profits realised after that time. She stressed that small-business concessions would shield most agricultural enterprises, referencing ABS figures showing nine out of ten would qualify. The Minister rejected the opposition's worries as fear-mongering.

Answer from Julie Collins

The Minister urged the opposition to stop running scare campaigns and presented facts from the National Farmers' Federation. She quoted the NFF welcoming budget measures that exempted primary production income from the new 30 per cent trust tax and confirmed that small business capital gains tax concessions would remain unchanged. She emphasized that the NFF was pleased the government had listened to their concerns regarding family farms.

Answer from Julie Collins

The Minister announced that the government had secured more than 80,000 tonnes of extra urea via the Fuel and Fertiliser Security Facility, working with Incitec Pivot to buy shipments from Indonesia. She stated that six deliveries totalling over 209,000 tonnes of urea had been obtained and that more than 800 million litres of extra fuel, including diesel, had been obtained through the Strengthening Australia's Fuel Resilience package. She noted that biosecurity processes were being streamlined to get fertiliser to farmers faster and that the National Farmers' Federation and GrainGrowers had welcomed these measures.

Answer from Julie Collins

The Minister stated that the government had held weekly roundtables with the agriculture industry and amended fuel and diesel standards. Twenty per cent of the strategic fuel stockpile had been released, and legislation had been passed to underwrite additional shipments, securing over 450 million litres of diesel. An additional 250,000 tonnes of urea had been secured from Indonesia. Biosecurity processes were being streamlined, and agricultural export service changes were deferred. The budget included a fuel and fertiliser security facility and a government-owned fuel reserve. These measures were welcomed by the National Farmers' Federation.

Answer from Julie Collins

The Minister listed actions including legislation to underwrite fuel and fertiliser purchases, halving the fuel excise, amending fuel standards, and releasing 20 per cent of the strategic fuel stockpile. She noted the Fertiliser Supply Working Group would meet soon. She mentioned ATO hardship measures and the deferral of full cost recovery for export services until 1 July 2027. She cited support from the Australian Meat Industry Council.

Answer from Julie Collins

The Minister stated that the government was postponing the requirement for exporters to pay the complete price for services for a twelve-month period ending on 1 July 2027 to provide certainty. She highlighted existing support mechanisms like the farm household allowance, concessional loans, financial counselling, and the Farm Management Deposit Scheme. A new Fertiliser Supply Working Group was established to improve fertiliser availability, building on legislation to underwrite fuel and fertiliser purchases. The Minister noted collaboration with the ACCC and industry to monitor supply and find alternative sources.

Answer from Julie Collins

The Minister highlighted the National Fuel Security Plan, which included underwriting fuel and fertiliser purchases. She noted that 20 per cent of fuel reserves were released to address regional shortages and that fuel standards were adjusted. The National Food Council was tasked with monitoring the conflict's impact, and a national food supply chain assessment was commissioned. Biosecurity processes were strengthened to prioritize fertiliser cargoes.

Answer from Julie Collins

The Minister acknowledged challenges for farmers and primary producers and stated she was meeting regularly with them to address ground-level issues. She highlighted government work on fertilizer supply and noted that Australia produces enough food to feed its population, exporting around 80 per cent of primary produce by value. She urged against panic regarding food supply and confirmed the government was continuing to work with farmers on fuel and fertilizer issues, referencing actions outlined by the Prime Minister and other ministers.

Answer from Julie Collins

The minister stated that the government strongly supports farmers and that the agreement provides significant opportunities for exporters. She noted that agricultural exports to the EU were valued at $4 billion in 2025 and would grow under the new terms. The deal eliminates most EU tariffs on agricultural products, including savings of approximately $17 million for the wine industry, and reduces testing requirements and export overheads. She highlighted that total agriculture, fisheries, and forestry exports reached over $82 billion in 2025, a 38 per cent increase since 2021.

Answer from Julie Collins

The Minister stated that sufficient fertilizer was available in Australia or on ships for the initial cropping season. She noted ongoing monitoring of delayed cargoes in the Persian Gulf and efforts to source urea from other regions. The Minister highlighted collaboration with the ACCC and industry to ensure fertilizer reaches those in need. She mentioned weekly meetings with the agriculture sector and regular contact with Fertilizer Australia to secure supplies for future crops.

Answer from Julie Collins

The Minister stated that the ACCC and Australian Institute of Petroleum are working with suppliers to address bottlenecks and ensure fuel reaches regional communities. She noted that penalties for false conduct and cartel behaviour have been doubled, and fuel price monitoring is being ramped up. She confirmed that the National Coordination Mechanism is active and that similar arrangements are being made for fertiliser supply, with much of the required fertiliser already in the country or en route. She urged all parties to act in the national interest rather than exploiting the crisis.

Answer from Julie Collins

The Minister reported holding a roundtable with industry groups including the National Farmers' Federation and the Australian Institute of Petroleum. She confirmed that fuel supplies were arriving in normal volumes and that the strategic reserve was larger than under the previous government. Fertilizer for the upcoming planting season was already in the country or en route. She urged calm and stated that the government was working day and night to assist producers with immediate challenges.

Answer from Julie Collins

The minister stated that the government was monitoring impacts and working with exporters to ensure safe return of disrupted products. She highlighted a roundtable with industry groups and noted that most fertilizer for the upcoming planting season was already in the country or on the water. She emphasized that fuel and fertilizer supply chain resilience was a key priority of the national food security strategy.

Answer from Julie Collins

The minister reported that farm-gate production was on track to exceed $100 billion, four years ahead of target. She noted that exports were forecast to reach $85 billion and that the government had implemented over 250 market improvements. She criticized the opposition for mismanaging international relations and jeopardizing the industry's success.

Answer from Julie Collins

The Minister stated that the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) is an independent body responsible for emergency listings and decisions based on science. She noted that the Tasmanian government manages waterways. She mentioned that the APVMA was considering removing the emergency listing based on new evidence.

Answer from Julie Collins

The Minister reported that agricultural exports were predicted to reach over $83 billion this financial year. She cited 256 market access achievements, including a free trade agreement with the UAE and new access for blueberries to Vietnam. She emphasised that diversified trade and stable relationships benefit regional jobs and economies.

Answer from Julie Collins

The Minister affirmed the importance of protecting agricultural land and ensuring food security. She explained that land use regulation is primarily a state responsibility, and noted that the proposed bill sought to override state jurisdictions, raising constitutional and property rights concerns. She highlighted that Australia produces more than 212 times its domestic food needs. She mentioned the launch of a national food security strategy and the appointment of a Food Council to advise on future food security measures.

Answer from Julie Collins

The Minister stated that buffel grass is recognized as valuable pasture in agricultural areas and that management actions would not affect deliberately planted grass. She explained that national weed priorities are being assessed collaboratively with state and territory governments. She highlighted government support for the beef industry, including $12 million for Beef2027 and noting a 62 per cent increase in beef exports.

Answer from Julie Collins

The Minister stated that the government had committed over $2 billion to strengthen the biosecurity system since taking office. She highlighted the adoption of the One Health approach and noted a suspected case of bird flu in wildlife on Heard Island, 4,000 kilometres south-west of Perth. She confirmed that samples had been collected for testing and that $100 million was being invested to boost preparedness, including funding for mobile laboratories, drones, and emergency response trailers. She emphasized the importance of protecting the $100 billion agriculture, fisheries, and forestry sector from global threats like bird flu.

Answer from Anthony Albanese; Julie Collins

The Prime Minister acknowledged the seriousness of feral pests and referred the question to the Minister for Agriculture. The minister stated that the government had invested around $2 billion in biosecurity and $3.87 million in the National Feral Pig Action Plan running to 2031. She emphasized that invasive species management is primarily the responsibility of state and territory governments, with the federal government focusing on biosecurity and coordination.

Answer from Julie Collins

The minister stated that the agreement eliminated tariffs on more than 99 per cent of Australian agricultural exports, with most tariffs removed immediately for red meat, grains, oilseeds, and dairy. She noted that tariffs on poultry, bread, and pastry would phase out over three to five years. The deal was expected to slash around $50 million a year in tariffs, supporting regional jobs and growth, with UAE agricultural exports currently valued at $1.7 billion.

Answer from Julie Collins

The minister stated that the decision was based on a risk assessment using scientific evidence conducted by department officials. She affirmed that Australia's biosecurity system had not been compromised and that $2 billion had been invested in biosecurity since the government took office. She noted that US and Australian traceability systems are equivalent and that all imported food must comply with safety standards.

Answer from Julie Collins

The Minister stated that the decision followed standard departmental processes and that US beef has been importable since 2019. She confirmed that protocols had been provided to the member's office and defended Australia's biosecurity system as the strongest in the world, noting a $2 billion investment to strengthen it.

Answer from Julie Collins

The Minister reported $73.5 billion in agricultural exports to over 190 countries in 2024. She highlighted the resumption of over $20 billion in trade with China, including new market access for apples from mainland Australia. She noted 230 agricultural market access achievements since taking office, aiming to grow the sector to $100 billion by 2030.

Answer from Julie Collins

The Minister noted that the opposition had delayed the instant asset write-off legislation for eight months before finally supporting it. She stated that the government had provided over $2 billion in targeted support for small businesses. She criticized the opposition for wanting to increase taxes for sole traders and small business owners. She affirmed that the government would consider further measures to support small businesses after the current legislation passed.

Answer from Julie Collins

The Minister confirmed that the instant asset write-off for the current financial year was $20,000, but noted that the legislation had been in parliament for eight months without opposition support. She stated that over $2 billion had been provided to small businesses over the term, including $290 million in energy bill relief, which the opposition had also opposed. She implied that the opposition's delay tactics were hindering small business support.

Answer from Julie Collins

The Minister stated that the government had introduced the legislation in June to provide certainty, noting the opposition had delayed it until the last week of the previous financial year. She said that if the opposition committed to getting it through speedily, the government would see what it could do. She emphasized the need for certainty for small businesses and noted the opposition's history of delaying such measures.