Using antimicrobial resistance surveillance data to support Australia’s ‘clean and green’ reputation is part of a research project by a Department of Agriculture and Food veterinary officer.
Veterinary officer Skye Badger is currently on study leave from the department to research potential efficiencies and innovations in a future Australian antimicrobial resistance surveillance program.
“Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the most challenging health risks facing the world today,” Dr Badger said.
“Antimicrobial resistance or AMR occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi or parasites stop antimicrobials such as antibiotics from working.
“Food animals are a key element in the surveillance of AMR.”
Dr Badger said Australia had an excellent reputation as a producer of safe, premium food which was recognised globally and enabled access to high-value markets.
“This reputation has been built on a national regulatory framework which controls veterinary chemicals and restricts the use of critically important antimicrobials in food-producing animals,” she said.
“These restrictions are thought to have resulted in a low AMR risk status in Australia’s livestock industries, which may offer a future market advantage over competitors with a higher AMR status.”
Dr Badger said when a producer is treating livestock with antibiotics, they must follow the veterinarian’s instructions and observe the withholding period.
“The overuse and misuse of antibiotics can contribute to the development of resistance in bacteria,” she said.
Dr Badger’s PhD research at the University of Adelaide will investigate AMR surveillance from an epidemiological perspective to enhance the quality and quantity of surveillance information.
“This information will assist the Commonwealth and Western Australian governments to make effective decisions to contain and prevent resistance,” she said.
Dr Badger’s PhD is supported by an Australian Research Council linkage grant with additional funding from the Australian Department of Agriculture and Water Resources, NSW Department of Primary Industries, and Zoetis and is being undertaken through the University of Adelaide.
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