Plant Health Australia (PHA) joined leaders from across the grains sector in Canberra for the Parliamentary Friends of Primary Producers’ Grains Showcase, highlighting the importance of strong biosecurity in protecting Australia’s $26 billion grains industry.

The event, co-hosted by the Parliamentary Friends of Primary Producers and Grain Producers Australia (GPA), brought together growers, industry organisations and government representatives to celebrate innovation, collaboration and the contribution of grains to the national economy.

PHA’s display attracted strong attention, featuring 3D models of two of Australia’s most significant biosecurity threats – the Khapra beetle and the brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB). The realistic models offered a tangible reminder of the potential impact of these pests, reinforcing the importance of prevention and early detection to protect productivity and maintain market access.

PHA Chief Executive Officer, Sarah Corcoran, said it was encouraging to see biosecurity recognised as a shared responsibility across industry and government.

“Events like this show how connected our grains industry is, and how vital biosecurity is to its long-term success,” Ms Corcoran said. “It was fantastic to see such strong engagement from growers and government representatives alike, demonstrating genuine support for the collaborative work that keeps Australia pest free.”

The event was also addressed by the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, the Hon Julie Collins MP, who acknowledged the critical role biosecurity plays in underpinning Australia’s agricultural productivity and trade.

PHA National Manager, Preparedness and RD&E, Stuart Kearns, said the showcase was an important reminder of how collaboration strengthens national preparedness.

“Biosecurity relies on everyone playing their part,” Mr Kearns said. “Programs like the Grains Farm Biosecurity Program give growers the tools and knowledge to identify and report potential threats early, which is vital for protecting industry and maintaining confidence in Australian exports.”

Also representing PHA was Jonathan Terlich, General Manager, Partnerships, who said the event was a valuable opportunity to connect directly with growers and policymakers.

“It’s always valuable to show how on-farm biosecurity links to the national system,” Mr Terlich said. “The more awareness we build at events like this, the stronger and more resilient our grains industry becomes.”

Other contributors included the Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC), Grain Trade Australia, Grains Australia, and the Australian Export Grains Innovation Centre (AEGIC). Attendees sampled a range of Australian grain-based products and learned more about the organisations working together to protect and grow this vital industry.

Photo: Sarah Corcoran, PHA CEO, with Jonathan Terlich, General Manager, Partnerships, Barry Large, GPA Chair, Dorinda Cox, Senator for WA, Colin Bettles, former GPA CEO and Stuart Kearns, PHA National Manager, Preparedness and RD&E.