The Government’s new FarmsOnLine biosecurity database is receiving mixed reviews just days after its launch.

Federated Farmers has privacy concerns about the biosecurity website, which requests farmers, growers and lifestyle block owners volunteer their contact information and farming details, so authorities can react instantly in the event of a biosecurity outbreak.

Federated Farmers has raised concerns about who exactly will be accessing farmers’ business information.    

Yet at the same time, Fonterra has just told Parliament’s primary production select committee that it believes the system must be compulsory in order to be effective.