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About Biosecurity Services Group - What are the changes?

On 1 July 2009, a new group of divisions were formed within the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) called the Biosecurity Services Group.

Following last year’s independent review of Australia’s quarantine and biosecurity services (the Beale Review) we have taken a comprehensive look at the way we work with clients and conduct our business.

A first step has been re-defining the way we are structured that reinforces a national approach, encompasses the biosecurity continuum (pre-border, border and post-border functions), simplifies internal and external communication and enhances responsiveness under a ‘risk return’ approach.

The new group integrates the functions and responsibilities of the Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service (AQIS), Biosecurity Australia (BA), Product Integrity, Animal and Plant Health (PIAPH) division and the Quarantine and Biosecurity Policy Unit. AQIS and BA branding will continue to be used throughout 2009/10.

The structure unites all sanitary and phytosanitary strategies for animal, plant, food and quarantine operations reflecting the recommendations made by the Beale Review. The group continues as part of DAFF, accountable to the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, the Hon. Tony Burke MP.

For our clients, the new structure will better support consistent service delivery along the biosecurity continuum (pre-border, border and post-border), providing effective biosecurity risk management underpinned by sound science and policy, efficient and responsive operations and strong client relationships.

There will be minimal changes to operational service delivery; however, to complement the national changes, new regional boundaries for the Biosecurity Services Group came into effect as of 1 July 2009.

Five consolidated regions will focus on the way our national programs need to be delivered to provide the most effective biosecurity services (to minimise quarantine and market access risks) and meet the needs of our clients.

New Biosecurity Services Group regional boundaries

New Busines Services Group regional boundaries thumbnail
Click on the thumbnail image to see a larger version of the regional boundaries

New Biosecurity Services Group interim structure 2009-10

The structural and boundary changes are a clear, forward looking and strong signal of our commitment to a truly national, client-focussed organisation delivering nationally consistent services.  However, for most of our clients there will be minimal operational changes — you will still contact the same offices, sections and people — and if specific servicing arrangements have changed you will be directed to the new contact.

For more information on how these changes may affect how you do business, please contact your local AQIS office or refer to our website: www.aqis.gov.au