PORTFOLIO NEWS

Government accepts advice on Exceptional Circumstances assistance in NSW, the ACT, Victoria and Tasmania

The Australian Government has accepted independent advice on whether to extend Exceptional Circumstances (EC) assistance in five areas of NSW, the ACT, Victoria and Tasmania. Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Tony Burke said the independent National Rural Advisory Council NRAC had reviewed the areas due to expire on 30 April 2010. Read the media release at http://www.maff.gov.au/media/media_releases/2010/march/government_accepts_advice_on_exceptional_circumstances_assistance_in_nsw,_the_act,_victoria_and_tasmania

Appointment to Productivity Commission Review of Research and Development Corporations

Assistant Treasurer, Senator Nick Sherry and Minister Burke have announced the appointment of Dr Cliff Samson as Associate Commissioner to the Productivity Commission review of Rural Research and Development Corporations. Dr Samson will assist the Commission in its inquiry looking at the way Rural Research and Development Corporations are funded and managed. More information is available at www.pc.gov.au. Read the joint media release at  http://www.maff.gov.au/media/media_releases/2010/march/appointment_to_productivity_commission_review_of_research_and_development_corporations & NSW

Australian governments committed to sustainable forest management

The Australian Government and the NSW Government have released an independent report into the implementation of three NSW Regional Forest Agreements. The report is a response to the five-yearly review of the NSW Regional Forest Agreements which was conducted by Scott Spencer, a former Director General of the Queensland Department of Natural Resources and Water. Read the joint media release at http://www.maff.gov.au/media/media_releases/2010/march/australian__and__nsw_governments_committed_to_sustainable_forest_management Landcare Forum 2010

EVENTS

National

The National Landcare Forum will be held at Allan Scott Park, Adelaide from 22 to 25 March 2010. The theme is Landcare celebrates—20 years of achievements and future challenges. The forum will recognise the significant contribution made by the Australian community to Landcare over the past 20 years. It will bring together Landcare and community groups, regional bodies and industry and government representatives. For more information visit www.nationallandcareforum.com.au.

Foot and mouth disease experts to meet in Melbourne—FMD 2010

The latest developments in foot and mouth disease (FMD) research, diagnostics, surveillance and control measures will be discussed at the inaugural international FMD Symposium and Workshop to be held in Melbourne from 12 to 14 April 2010.

A unique feature of the symposium will be its scenario-based interactive workshop led by Dr Ross Cutler, a leading Australian veterinarian and facilitator. Further information about the symposium is available at www.FMD2010.com.au.
The symposium is supported by Meat and Livestock Australia, the Australian cattle industry, CSIRO’s Australian Animal Health Laboratory (AAHL), Merial and DAFF. FMD 2010 is being hosted by DAFF, AAHL, Animal Health Australia and the DPI Vic.