New head for PrimeSafe sought

Agriculture Minister Jaala Pulford said PrimeSafe and Dairy Food Safety Victoria were the independent regulators of the Victorian dairy, meat and seafood industries, responsible for ensuring national food safety standards were met.

“We’re seeking strong industry leaders to maintain the good reputation of Victorian dairy and meat industries while minimising regulatory burden, especially on the small businesses in the sector,” Ms Pulford said.

 “The government is focused on growing agriculture, food and fibre business in Victoria and we need contemporary regulators that are responsive to the needs of these evolving industries.

“This an important opportunity to help shape the regulation of the Victorian dairy, meat, poultry and seafood industries.”

PrimeSafe and Dairy Food Safety Victoria license producers, processors, manufacturers and distributors in their respective industries, and play an important role in safeguarding Victoria’s food safety system and growing market access opportunities.

Ms Pulford said candidates with relevant experience on a board or committee, with demonstrated skills in governance and regulation, an ability to work collaboratively with government and respond to ministerial statements of expectations were encouraged to apply.

Women were also encouraged to apply.

The term for the current PrimeSafe chair, Mallee grazier Len Vallance, expires in the middle of the year but there is a significant lead time to find a replacement. He operates a 9,000 hectare beef and grain property in the central Mallee.

The current Dairy Food Safety Victoria chair is Grant Davis, who runs a farm at Swan Hill, was appointed in 2012.

Mr Vallance was appointed chair in 2013, after serving as a PrimeSafe board member.

Expressions of Interest for members will close on 24 January 2016 and may be submitted via the ‘get on board’ website at www.getonboard.vic.gov.au.