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  Preparing the thoroughbred industry for operations during a possible foot and mouth disease outbreak quantity

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In the wake of the 2022 foot and mouth disease (FMD) resurgence in Indonesia, there is a critical need for Australia to be prepared in the event of a similar crisis. The livestock industry, a cornerstone of Australia’s economy, faces a significant threat from FMD, which could trigger a cascade of detrimental effects across various sectors.

Implementation of the Australian Veterinary Emergency Plan (AUSVETPLAN) and a national livestock standstill (NLSS) are measures designed to mitigate the spread of FMD, yet they pose unique challenges to the thoroughbred breeding industry.

This research addresses the urgent problem of safeguarding the thoroughbred breeding industry from the repercussions of movement restrictions during an FMD outbreak. By establishing a comprehensive risk framework and biosecurity plan, the study aims to empower the industry to take proactive steps in minimising the imposition of such restrictions on breeding operations.

The findings reveal that the thoroughbred breeding industry is at a crossroads, with the potential for significant disruption due to FMD. However, the proposed risk framework and biosecurity plan offer a practical tool, providing actionable strategies to protect the industry against future threats.

The key recommendations communicate the need for immediate adoption of enhanced biosecurity measures, underscoring the importance of industry-wide collaboration and adherence to the guidelines. Proactive engagement with the recommended practices is not just beneficial but essential for the continuity and resilience of the thoroughbred breeding sector in the face of FMD challenges.