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EDITION 2026/10
Message from the CEO
October has been another busy month across Australia’s plant biosecurity system, with new pest detections reinforcing the importance of surveillance, preparedness and coordinated action. As the EPPRD marks 21 years, I reflect on the value of the partnerships and nationally agreed arrangements that underpin our ability to respond when biosecurity threats emerge.
That focus on preparedness continues through PHA's work, including a new partnership with Turf Queensland, investment in national biosecurity training and education resources, and preparations for our November Member meetings.
Member meetings
PHA’s Member meetings will be held from 24–26 November at the East Hotel in Canberra. An invitation with registration details has been sent to all Members, and the program is now available online. Please register your attendance by close of business on Friday 13 November using the links provided in the invitation. The formal Notice of Meeting will be distributed in early November.
Avocado webinars build biosecurity awareness
Avocado growers can now catch up on the ‘Lunch & Learn’ biosecurity series, covering High Priority Pests, emergency response funding and industry preparedness. Recordings of all three webinars are available online, with practical information growers can use to support biosecurity on-farm.
Laying the groundwork for turf biosecurity
PHA is partnering with Turf Queensland on a new Hort Innovation funded project to develop practical biosecurity resources for Australian turf growers. The project will help turf growing businesses identify risks, strengthen on-farm biosecurity, and prepare for future pest and disease threats.
Biosecurity training hubs continue to support capability
New funding will support the continued delivery of the National Biosecurity Training Hub and Youth Biosecurity Hub. The investment will help keep biosecurity training and education resources accessible and relevant to government, industry, educators and communities across Australia.
Decisive action against Giant Pine Scale
New Giant Pine Scale detections in Adelaide’s north-east have prompted tree removal and continued surveillance to help contain the pest and protect urban trees and plantation forestry.
Increased locust plague risk forecast this spring
Seasonal conditions across eastern Australia could support increased Australian plague locust activity this spring, with landholders encouraged to report significant activity to support surveillance, forecasting and early response.
New resource supports grains harvest planning
Western Australian growers can access updated harvest information covering low crops, wind erosion, mice, groundcover, stored-grain hygiene, seasonal forecasts and other considerations for the 2026 grains harvest.
Qld renews tomato virus movement controls
Queensland has introduced a new movement control order for carriers of tomato brown rugose fruit virus, maintaining requirements for host plants, seed, fruit, equipment, structures and packaging entering the state.
New biosecurity legislation takes effect
Four replacement biosecurity legislative instruments commenced on 1 October, updating requirements covering biosecurity regulations, territorial movements, and reportable biosecurity incidents.
Applications open for 2027 Horizon Scholarship
The AgriFutures Horizon Scholarship is supporting emerging agriculture leaders with a $5,000 annual bursary, industry placements, leadership development and professional networks. Applications close 13 November 2026.
New fire ant controls introduced in NSW
A new Biosecurity Control Order is now in effect around the Enfield detection site, regulating the movement of high-risk materials to support ongoing fire ant monitoring and compliance.
Research strengthens citrus biosecurity
Promising field trials are exploring new technology to develop citrus trees with greater resistance to Huanglongbing, helping Australia prepare for this damaging citrus disease.
Tasmania seeks input on varroa readiness
Tasmania is seeking feedback on a draft plan outlining how authorities would investigate and respond to a suspected varroa mite detection, including containment, delimitation and consideration of eradication.
Latest from Prevent Fruit Fly
Priorities emerge for next fruit fly strategy
The latest Prevent Fruit Fly newsletter is now available. Read the Manager's reflections on the priorities shaping the next National Fruit Fly Strategy, along with the latest updates on fruit fly research, management and the people contributing to Australia's fruit fly system.
Latest from Grains Farm Biosecurity
What makes a High Priority Pest?
Some exotic pests pose a greater threat to Australia's grains industry than others. Learn how entry, establishment, spread and economic impact are assessed to identify High Priority Pests and why knowing what to look for supports preparedness and early reporting.
Latest from Farm Biosecurity
Know what’s coming onto your property
Seed, planting material, livestock, feed, machinery and other farm inputs can provide pathways for pests, diseases and weeds. Learn how checking the source and condition of incoming inputs, keeping appropriate records and monitoring after arrival can help reduce biosecurity risks.
Out and about
PHA’s Zoe Nix, Acting Manager, Learning and Development, facilitated Industry Liaison Officer training in Darwin.
PHA’s Dr Stephen Quarrell, Manager, Biosecurity Planning, presented at the Australian Melon Conference in Townsville.
PHA’s John Nielsen, Manager, Digital Systems, presented on the Pest and Disease Image Library (PaDIL) at a National Plant Biosecurity Diagnostic Network (NPBDN) webinar.
PHA’s David Cousins, National Manager, Engagement and Training, joined government representatives at the Northern Australia Biosecurity Strategy (NABS) meeting in Cairns.
PHA staff highlighted the importance of staying hydrated during Safe Work Month. Pictured are John Nielsen, Imogen Gad, Shannon Edwards, Rebecca Powderly and Marianne Coquilleau, with Lorissa McCosh and Jimmy Lu joining online.
PHA staff Marianne Coquilleau and Rebecca Powderly put healthy work habits into practice during Safe Work Month, including regular movement and stretching.
