Coalition’s legislated biosecurity funding to end Labor’s fresh food tax threat

A future Coalition Government will legislate a sustainable biosecurity funding model that includes an Import Container Levy and gets rid of Labor’s fresh food tax once and for all.

Leader of The Nationals David Littleproud said he was thrilled to announce the game changing policy at the Northern Territory Cattlemen’s Association conference today.

“A future Coalition Government will put an end to Labor’s terrible fresh food tax threat, or biosecurity protection levy, and most importantly, legislate sustainable and secure biosecurity funding,” Mr Littleproud said.

“The Coalition will introduce an Import Container Levy by Sea and Air, making those who are responsible for creating biosecurity risks pay for it, rather than taxing our own farmers."

Northern Territory Cattlemen’s Association (NTCA) Deputy and incoming CEO Romy Carey said the NTCA has long called for a fair and sustainable approach to biosecurity funding, where the risk creators are responsible for funding its management.

“The Import Container Levy is a practical solution to ensure farmers aren’t left carrying the cost,” Mrs Carey said.

“Biosecurity can’t be funded in cycles of crisis - we need a stable, long-term model that protects the NT cattle industry and secures Australia’s reputation for producing safe, highquality beef.”

Mr Littleproud added the Coalition’s model will enable the biosecurity funding to go towards activities such as a $2 million pilot for smarter technology to detect diseases.

“The technology pilot I am also announcing today will allow the detection of the presence of Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) in our insect population, well in advance of detection in a livestock herd,” Mr Littleproud said.

“This groundbreaking trial has never been done before in Australia for LSD. It will help stop the spread of LSD if it gets to the NT, saving our cattle farmers precious time and allowing detection within hours instead of days or weeks.

“By early detection from insect nests, the $13.7 billion industry can better prepare and remain safe. LSD can spread 28 kilometres a day and would cost $7.4 billion from lost trading opportunities in the first year alone.”

The vector technology was a recommendation in the Red Meat Advisory Council 2025-26 Budget Submission.

CLP candidate for Solomon Lisa Bayliss said the investment is a major boost for agriculture and livestock in the Top End.

“This will help protect the sector that’s worth billions to the Australian economy,” Ms Bayliss said.

“It's a game changer and demonstrates the Coalition’s commitment to the Territory.”

Labor’s Operation Lunar will also be given a comprehensive review under a future Coalition Government in relation to biosecurity.

As at the end of January, 172 illegal boats have been intercepted in the past six months.

“There are fears Operation Lunar is not as effective as it should be for biosecurity and we want to make sure it is working,” Mr Littleproud said.

“Illegal fishing boats could bring in diseases such as Foot and Mouth Disease that could cost the economy $50 billion over 10 years. We need a review to ensure our biosecurity activities are effective."