Newcastle disease prevention and control program

A prevention and control program for Newcastle disease has been authorised under the Biosecurity Act 2014.

Biosecurity matter

The biosecurity matter to which the biosecurity program relates is virulent Newcastle disease (ND) virus – avian paramyxovirus of type 1 serotype (APMV-1).

Purpose and scope

The purpose of the biosecurity program is to:

  • prevent the establishment and spread of ND virus in Queensland by compulsory vaccination of the commercial long lived chickens (include layers and breeding birds)
  • and
  • control and eradicate ND through stamping out, disposal, cleaning & disinfection and vaccination.

The biosecurity program will apply to all commercial poultry producers with 500 and more long lived chickens (include layers and breeding birds) in the State of Queensland.

Commencement and duration

The biosecurity program started on 1 July 2016 and will conclude when the National ND Management Plan Steering Committee determines that vaccination of long lived chickens (layers and breeding birds) in Queensland is no longer required.

The duration of the biosecurity program is considered to be reasonably necessary to achieve the purpose.

Access to biosecurity program

A copy of the biosecurity program for the prevention and control of Newcastle disease is available for inspection at all Department of Agriculture and Fisheries offices.

A free copy can be provided on request by contacting our Customer Service Centre on 13 25 23.