Thursday, 1 August 2024

Poultry industry

Jeff BOURMAN (Eastern Victoria) (12:37): (604) My question is for the Minister for Agriculture, represented by the Attorney-General. The chicken industry is currently suffering from the debilitating effects of bird flu, leading to shortages of eggs on the shelves and higher prices for chicken meat – in the middle of a cost-of-living crisis, no less. Recent reports of relentless campaigns in other states from animal activists targeting our embattled chicken producers raises concerns of what might happen should the activists start invading egg farms here in Victoria. So my question is: what is the Victorian government doing to protect chicken producers at risk of trespass onto their property from overzealous campaigners encouraged by these groups?

Jaclyn SYMES (Northern Victoria – Attorney-General, Minister for Emergency Services) (12:38): I thank Mr Bourman for his question. There are range of measures that I am sure the Minister for Agriculture will be happy to provide you further information on.

Jeff BOURMAN (Eastern Victoria) (12:38): I thank the minister. We have quite weak trespass laws in this state, which leads to activists sometimes getting away with invasions on private property. What changes will the minister propose to Victoria Police to be better able to respond to these types of incursions so that our chicken producers and others are protected?

Jaclyn SYMES (Northern Victoria – Attorney-General, Minister for Emergency Services) (12:38): I thank Mr Bourman for his question and indeed his interest in the safety of farmers and agricultural producers as well as biosecurity issues. The Minister for Agriculture – the former agriculture minister here is having a bit of FOMO – will indeed provide you with a detailed answer.