A recent report conducted by the National Dioxins Programe has concluded that Australia has the lowest levels of dioxins in the world. A by-product of combustion, dioxins remains in the environment for a long time and results in cancer, nervous and reproductive disorders and other adverse health impacts. "This series of scientific reports produced by the National Dioxins Program represents the largest survey of dioxin levels ever undertaken in Australia," said Dr. David Kemp, Australian Minister for Environment and Heritage. "This is a nationwide examination of the background levels of dioxins in Australia to show the average risk to the average Australian. "Conducted in 2001-2004, the studies show that the levels of dioxins in our food, our bodies and the environment are

low compared with international standards. They also show the risks to human health and the environment are low," he said. Further the report has revealed that improved tests have proved that the impact of bushfires, which are the major source of dioxin emissions, is significantly low. Similarly, dioxins levels have rapidly come down in the country's aquatic environment though it is slightly higher in some urban and industrial areas. And Australia's agricultural commodities such as beef, poultry and milk report low levels of dioxins, which is on par with the food status in New Zealand and significantly lower than other countries. "The Australian Government in conjunction with state and territory governments will now be able to formulate a range of actions involving industry and the community to keep dioxin levels low and to reduce the risks further. This work is a significant scientific development and will help Australia meet its international obligations under the Stockholm Convention ratified on 20 May," Dr Kemp said.