Plant Health Australia (PHA) is working with the Australian Ginger Industry Association (AGIA) to enhance biosecurity capability across Australia’s ginger industry. Through an AgriFutures-funded project, PHA’s Planning team is developing resources focusing on pest and disease management, identifying exotic pest threats and improving the industry’s ability to respond to potential exotic pest incursions.

Ginger production continues to face pressure from established pests and diseases across growing regions. In addition, several high-risk exotic pests and diseases not currently present in Australia could pose significant threats if introduced.

To support the industry, PHA is leading the update of the Ginger Industry Biosecurity Plan, developing practical information resources, and delivering targeted workshops for AGIA representatives and ginger growers.

Since the project commenced in December 2024, PHA has established a Biosecurity Reference Panel comprising industry representatives and Queensland Department of Primary Industries (QDPI) biosecurity staff. The panel is guiding the review of the Biosecurity Plan and supporting the development of new industry resources tailored to industry needs.

PHA has recently completed two new Plant Protection Guides, scheduled release in 2026. These guides provide practical guidance on developing on-farm biosecurity plans, identifying and managing key pests and diseases, sampling and reporting, and understanding what happens if an exotic pest or disease is detected.

Supported by complementary AgriFutures projects, these resources will also underpin a series of annual grower workshops, designed to build biosecurity capability and support ongoing pest and disease management across the ginger industry.

For more information on the project, visit AgriFutures Australia’s website.