The Almond Board of Australia represents the biosecurity interests of almond producers and the industry. They are members of Plant Health Australia and signatories to the Emergency Plant Pest Response Deed. Their responsibilities include:
- biosecurity planning and implementation at the national and farm levels
- liaising with federal and state governments on trade issues
- funding and supporting biosecurity initiatives
- participating in national committees and response efforts in an emergency.
Industry overview
In 2015–16, almond production was valued at $699 million (LVP). There are several almond varieties grown in Australia. The most popular include the Nonpareil, Carmel and Price which are sold in a range of forms, including in-shell, raw kernel, and as roasted and blanched products.
About three quarters of Australian almonds are exported, going to 50 countries, with India the most valuable export country and Europe the largest buyer by region.
The Australian almond industry is concentrated along the Murray Valley in Victoria, SA and NSW with an orchard recently commencing production in WA. In total, almond trees cover 40,000 hectares.
The industry is undergoing an expansion phase, and when current plantings are mature in 2025 production is expected to reach nearly 130,000 tonnes. More planting is planned.
The almond industry is covered by version 3.0 of the nut industry biosecurity plan and the Orchard Biosecurity Manual for the Almond Industry Version 1.0.
Value of production and distribution
Annual value of almond production, 2007–16
Distribution of almond production by state and territory, 2015–16 (based on LVP)
Biosecurity plans, manuals and resources
Biosecurity Plan for the Tree Nut Industry
Biosecurity planning provides a mechanism for the almond industry, government and other relevant stakeholders to assess current biosecurity practices and future biosecurity needs. Planning identifies procedures that can be put in place to reduce the chance of pests reaching our borders or minimise the impact if a pest incursion occurs.
The Biosecurity Plan for the Tree Nut Industry outlines key threats to the industry, risk mitigation plans, identification and categorisation of exotic pests and contingency plans. For a copy, please contact PHA on 02 6215 7700 or email admin@phau.com.au
Orchard Biosecurity Manual for the Almond Industry
The Orchard Biosecurity Manual for the Almond Industry contains information to help producers to implement biosecurity on-farm. Manuals usually contain an overview of biosecurity, fact sheets to identify the high priority pests of a crop, tips on crop management, and how to manage people, vehicles and equipment to minimise biosecurity risks.
Manuals also contain a biosecurity self-assessment list, and templates to record pest surveillance records and visitors.
More information about on-farm biosecurity for both plant and livestock producers is available from the Farm Biosecurity website.
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