100 years of the World Organisation of Animal Health

This week the Australian Government joined in celebration of The World Organisation of Animal Health’s (WOAH) milestone 100th anniversary.

WOAH, formerly known as International des Epizooties (OIE) is an international organisation, focusing on preserving the health and wellbeing of animals.

To honour 100 years of WOAH a celebration was hosted by the French Embassy in Canberra.

Dr Beth Cookson, Australia’s Chief Veterinary Officer and Delegate to the World Organisation for Animal Health, spoke at the celebration event.

“Australia has been a WOAH Member for 99 of its 100 years,” Dr Cookson said.

“Our commitment to the organisation is a testament to the essential role which we believe it plays.

“As more nations are sharing greater prosperity through agricultural trade, collaboration to address global animal disease threats is more important than ever.

“WOAH provides vital global leadership in animal health, with member nations working together to enable safe and sustainable trade”.

The World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) plays a crucial role in securing global trade through its international standards on animals and animal products.

“In Australia, we are fortunate to enjoy a diverse ecosystem free from many pests and diseases,” Dr Cookson said.

“It’s important that we protect Australia, especially our agricultural sector, from these threats to the health and welfare of our animals.

“We work hard to keep these diseases out of Australia for the sake of our Australian way of life, a feat we could not achieve without organisations like WOAH.

“Australia is committed to working collaboratively with WOAH into the future.”