CEO UPDATE
Supporting producers through natural disasters
Recent floods in Queensland, droughts in South Australia and bushfires in Victoria are stark reminders of the increasing challenges producers face during extreme weather events. When disaster strikes, it’s not just property and livestock at risk — it’s homes, livelihoods, and communities.
The impact goes well beyond the immediate damage. Natural disasters put enormous strain on families, mental health, and the ability to keep businesses running. Recovery is often complex and stressful, which is why having access to practical support and clear information matters so much.
To help, we’ve compiled a list of national, state, and industry resources to support producers as they prepare for, respond to, and recover from bushfires, floods, droughts, and other extreme weather events. This list will be updated as these events evolve.
Our thoughts are with all producers and communities affected by these disasters, and we thank emergency teams and industry organisations for their ongoing efforts to keep livestock and communities safe during challenging times.
Lumpy Skin Disease found in Bali
Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) has recently been detected in Bali for the first time, following its spread through parts of Indonesia since 2022. While this development is notable, it’s not unexpected, and Australia’s strict biosecurity measures continue to effectively manage the risk of LSD entering the country.
Thanks to the National LSD Action Plan and ongoing surveillance across northern Australia, we remain confident in Australia’s preparedness settings. However, collective vigilance and strong partnerships will remain critical as the situation evolves.
The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) is actively monitoring the situation, engaging with Indonesian authorities, and assessing any implications for regional preparedness.
More information about the global LSD situation can be found on the DAFF website.
A big year ahead
The new year is well under way, and 2026 is already shaping up to be another big year of progress and collaboration. We’re looking forward to seeing our members come together at the first Member Engagement Week in Canberra this March — a cornerstone event that always helps set the tone for the year ahead.
The year ahead also promises important strategic progress — from ongoing preparedness initiatives to deeper engagement with members across government and industry. Together, we have a strong foundation to build on, and the months ahead will see us continue to refine and strengthen the systems that protect Australia’s livestock industries.
Regards
Dr Samantha Allan
MEMBER UPDATE
Registrations are open for Member Engagement Week — March 2026
Our first Member Engagement Week of 2026 is fast approaching.
Once again, we invite members to join us at the Vibe Hotel in Canberra on 2-5 March 2026 to connect, share insights, and collaborate on key issues shaping our sector.
As always, our three forums — Members’, Industry and Government — will form the backbone of the event, along with ample opportunity for networking and socialising.
AHA Member Charter Review – have your say
We’re updating our Member Charter to better align with our Strategic Plan 2025–30. Tell us what’s working, what could improve, and how the Charter can better support collaboration and accountability.
Please share your feedback by 1 February 2026.
Peak Industry Bodies, it’s time to review your EAD contact lists!
It’s that time of year again: we’re asking all Peak Industry Bodies to review and confirm your LLI, CCEAD, and NMG EAD contact lists.
Industry signatories received their lists at the end of 2025, and now we need your tick of approval — or updates — to ensure everyone is ready to respond quickly to an EAD incident.
What to do once you’ve completed your review
- Everything’s up to date? Great — email trainingsupport@animalhealthaustralia.com.au to let us know your representatives and their details are confirmed.
- Need to make changes? Follow the instructions in the original email to update any details.
Accurate, up-to-date contact information is critical for rapid activation during an EAD incident. Please finalise your review by the end of January.
If you need help, please email trainingsupport@animalhealthaustralia.com.au.
National Management Group (NMG) Training Exercise
Registrations are now open for the NMG Training Exercise, happening Wednesday 4 – Thursday 5 March as part of Member Engagement Week.
Now is the perfect time to review your current NMG representative lists and confirm who should attend.
The NMG Training Exercise uses scenario-based discussions to build members’ readiness for EAD incidents and create a collaborative space for learning and networking.
Registrations are open and will close Friday 6 February. To register, discuss attendance with your peak industry body or government agency.
Enquiries: trainingsupport@animalhealthaustralia.com.au
For more information about the NMG, read the CCEAD and NMG Information Guide.
Resource of the month
Disaster relief and recovery resources for livestock producers
A list of national, state and industry-related resources to help your members prepare, respond, and recover effectively from bushfires, drought, floods and other natural disasters.
Upcoming AHA events
Member Engagement Week
Canberra Airport ACT, Australia
National Management Group (NMG) Training Exercise
Canberra Airport ACT, Australia