Compensation Available In The Event Of A Foot And Mouth Outbreak In New Zealand

Government compensation is available in the event of a Foot and Mouth Disease outbreak in New Zealand.

Under the Biosecurity Act 1993, if MAF orders animals killed or property destroyed, owners will receive full market value compensation.

In addition, if MAF restricts the movement of stock, owners receive full compensation for losses that arise.

The compensation payable under the Act must be enough so that the owner is in no better or worse position than someone whose property or goods are not directly affected.

This means that responsible farmers who immediately report suspected cases of disease will not be worse off as a result of the MAF response.

Early reporting of disease is vital to enable a rapid and effective response. The sooner MAF can respond the more likely it is that the disease can be contained and eradicated.

To report a suspected case of Foot and Mouth Disease call your vet or phone the MAF Exotic Disease and Pest Emergency Hotline – 0800 809 966. The cost to farmers and New Zealand of delaying a response to Foot and Mouth Disease may be catastrophic. This, and the compensation provisions of the Biosecurity Act, means there should be no hesitation in advising MAF of suspect cases.

• Guide to completing a claim for compensation under section 162A of the Biosecurity Act 1993
• Compensation Claim under Section 162A - Biosecurity Act 1993 PDF (56 Kb) | Word (103 Kb)