Inspection fees will be waived for South Australian farmers importing fodder from interstate amid ongoing drought conditions.


In recognition of the hardship being felt by many, South Australian farmers will not have to pay the $167 hourly fee usually required for inspections of incoming fodder to ensure it does not contain any pests such as Red Imported Fire Ants and Green Snail.


Red Imported Fire Ants are one of the world’s worst invasive species and have infested parts of New South Wales and Queensland. Green Snail, from certain areas of Western Australia and Victoria, also poses a risk to South Australia.


Biosecurity inspections are critical to protecting South Australia against these pests, which, if established, would create significant challenges for farmers.


Biosecurity inspections will continue to occur, with no cost to drought affected farmers. Rebates will be available for inspection fees paid since November 2024, when the first drought package was announced.


PIRSA has also been working with all charities and associations involved in bringing hay into the state through the Donated Fodder Transport Drought Assistance Scheme to ensure compliance with biosecurity regulations.


The scheme is part of the State Government’s $73m Drought Support Package and has seen thousands of tonnes of fodder delivered to farmers across the state with more deliveries to come.


For more information on drought support visit pir.sa.gov.au/drought