New England MP Barnaby Joyce backs petition for stronger biosecurity measures as foot and mouth disease could devastate cattle industry

Mr Joyce has said unequivocally that the entry of the disease into Australia had the capacity to undermine the economy.

"We can stop one of the greatest economic train wrecks that we'll ever experience by being better prepared for foot and mouth," he said.

Should the disease make it into the cattle industry, Mr Joyce said the cost of living would rise yet again.

"No pork in your shops, no beef, no mutton, no goat, even farm machinery that produces grain crops - it won't be allowed to move ... it'll all be locked down," he said.

In a plea to guard against foot and mouth disease Mr Joyce has backed a petition started by the Young Nationals to increase biosecurity measures to at least include detector dogs, screening and spraying of luggage, and disinfection of shoes.

Read also:

He said he wanted to see all shoes brought in from Indonesia via carry-on and check-in luggage, and those being worn by travellers, to be confiscated and disposed of by incineration.

"So basically take a cheap pair of shoes with you because you'll be disposing of the ones you've got on the way back," he said.

While Australian biosecurity has a long history of protecting the country from foot and mouth disease coming from countries such as Malaysia, the proximity of Bali to northern Australia presented a new threat.

Only two hours from Darwin by plane - the presence of foot and mouth disease in Bali leaves Australia and the region less time to respond should the disease be bound for Australia from Indonesia shores.

Once in Australia the spread of the disease could also be exacerbated by feral animals, according to Mr Joyce.

Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can continue to access our trusted content: