(1)  An entity that has prepared a draft program under section 131 may apply to the Minister for approval of the program.

(2)  An application is to be –

(a) in writing; and

(b) in a form approved by the Minister; and

(c) accompanied by a copy of the program and any other information or material required by the Minister.

(3)  On receipt of an application under subsection (1) , and after consultation with any entity representing persons who, in the opinion of the Minister, are likely to be affected by the implementation of the program, the Minister may by written notice to the entity that prepared the draft program –

(a) approve the program; or

(b) if the entity that prepared the draft program agrees, amend the program and approve the program as amended; or

(c) refuse to approve the program; or

(d) request that the entity provide further information in respect of the program and after consideration of that further information –

(i) approve the program; or

(ii) if the entity that prepared the draft program agrees, amend the program and approve the program as amended; or

(iii) refuse to approve the program.

(4)  The Minister must refuse to approve a draft program if –

(a) it does not provide that the Secretary or the Secretary's nominee is a member of the management committee for the program; or

(b) it provides for the destruction or other disposal of any biosecurity matter or other property without the written approval of the Secretary, or the owner of the biosecurity matter or property.

(5)  An approved biosecurity program takes effect on the date specified by the Minister in the notice of approval of the program.