Border crossing restrictions prohibiting horses from NSW and Queensland entering Victoria and other EI free states will continue, despite NSW announcing reduced horse movement restrictions for some parts of
NSW and a controlled vaccination program.
Victoria’s Chief Veterinary Officer Dr Hugh Millar said the priority in Victoria was to remain horse flu free.
“We will not jeopardise Victoria’s EI free status by relaxing border restrictions before the danger period has passed.
“Restricting all horse movement into Victoria from NSW is paramount to protecting Victoria.
“Border crossings will continue to be monitored 24/7 in a bid to detect any illegal activity. Serious
penalties apply to those who breach border restrictions, including imprisonment and heavy fines.
In addition, Dr Millar said any horses detected entering Victoria illegally could be detained, seized and destroyed.
“Victoria is abiding by the nationally agreed framework for management of EI, by restricting horse
movement from EI infected states to non-infected states.
“Containing outbreaks, as highlighted in NSW, is extremely difficult and we must protect the Victorian horse industry.
“We do not want the horse industry to be forced into a costly and on-going annual vaccination program, which may result in Australia being unable to eradicate EI.
“With co-operation from horse owners, we still have the potential to eradicate horse flu,” Dr Millar said.
NSW announced plans to vaccinate some horses this week at outbreak areas and lift the horse movement standstill for some unaffected NSW areas.
Horses from NSW and Queensland are not permitted to enter Victoria. Movement of horse equipment or transport from NSW and Queensland to Victoria is also banned except with a permit issued by DPI.
The public can report any suspicious activity to (03) 9217 4470 at anytime.