Aust needs quarantine boost: Callinan

The author of a report into the equine influenza crisis says Australia's quarantine measures need to be strengthened significantly to protect the country from another outbreak.

The horse flu epidemic crippled the racing and horse industries in Queensland and New South Wales last year.

Former High Court judge Ian Callinan handed his report to the Federal Agriculture Minister yesterday.

The Federal Government says it will not publicly release the report into the equine influenza crisis until it has been properly considered.

In a statement, Agriculture Minister Tony Burke said he had received the report and would take the time needed to thoroughly review it before making any decision on the recommendations.

While traveling in regional Queensland today, Mr Callinan said international quarantine measures also needed improvement. Click here to go to the ABC News website