CSIRO Animal Testing and Biosecurity

During this estimates hearing, I questioned CSIRO regarding animal experimentation practices and biosecurity measures at the Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness in Geelong. CSIRO’s response to Question on Notice (SI-173) revealed that in the 2024 calendar year, 248 experiments involved over 1.07 million animals, with a staggering 752,757 humanely killed afterward. Excluding fish, 98,293 animals were destroyed. I requested specific data on these species and the justification for this level of killing. Dr Taylor defended the research as being vital for border protection, export markets, and human health threats, ranging from observational cattle studies to high-level biocontainment. I questioned whether this complied with the Australian code for the care and use of animals for scientific purposes. Dr Taylor assured me they comply, claiming that regular independent audits are carried out through a dedicated animal ethics committee. Holding up aerial photographs of tower structures, I asked if the facility conducts onsite burning for animal disposal or releases exhaust gases. Dr Taylor clarified that they use an international-standard autoclave process to heat-treat all material before release, ensuring no fumes leave the facility and multiple biosecurity redundancies are in place. I tabled an aerial photo showing two large, blue-green ponds, expressing concern that the colour indicates toxic cyanobacteria and noting pipes leading toward Stingeree Bay. I was told that these are for general stormwater runoff and have "no purpose" in waste handling. They said all biosecurity water processing happens inside the facility. Because a water-processing plant is not visible on the aerial shots, I placed multiple questions on notice. I have asked them to provide a full drainage report, clarification on the pond contents, and details on their internal water-processing. Further, I want an absolute assurance that no toxins or bacteria have entered Stingeree Bay. Transcript: https://www.malcolmrobertsqld.com.au/csiro-animal-testing-and-biosecurity/