Why review the BAM Act?
The Biosecurity and Agriculture Management Act 2007 (BAM Act) is the regulatory framework to protect Western Australia from plant and animal pests and diseases, control the use of agricultural and veterinary chemicals, and ensure safe and quality agricultural products.
A Ministerial review of the operation and effectiveness of the BAM Act is a statutory requirement under Section 194 of the Act.
The review and any subsequent changes to the legislation will ensure the BAM Act continues to provide a fit-for-purpose framework that supports effective and resilient biosecurity and agriculture management into the future.
Review terms of reference
As outlined in the terms of reference, the review was intended to broaden community and industry support for and confidence in WA’s biosecurity system by paving the way for:
- a flexible and continuously improving biosecurity system
- improved biosecurity risk management
- industry and community engagement and participation in WA’s biosecurity system
- less administrative burden on industry.
The review panel, chaired by Ms Kaylene Gulich PSM, considered broader biosecurity system issues beyond legislation, and the review outcomes and recommendations represent a significant opportunity to modernise WA's biosecurity system through a range of contemporary policy and legislative reforms.
Review process
- Stage 1 involved open submissions and a survey to identify major themes and issues.
- Stage 2 explored the themes/issues identified through Stage 1 with targeted stakeholders, including potential options and solutions.
- Stage 3 sought broad engagement to get feedback on the potential legislative and non-legislative reform opportunities.
The government is currently considering the panel’s report and recommendations to determine what action it will take in response to the review. It is anticipated that the review report and supporting documents, will be published alongside the government’s response to the review in mid-2024.