Avocados Australia represents the biosecurity interests of avocado 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 2017–18, avocado production was valued at $350 million (LVP), with exports valued at $11.6 million, which were mainly shipped to Malaysia and Singapore.
Australians’ love of avocados has grown steadily each year since the 1990s. Consumption in 2018–19 reached 3.8 kilograms per person, up from 1.2 kilograms in 1997–98.
Queensland dominates Australia’s avocado production, followed by WA, NSW, SA and Victoria, with a small amount of production in Tasmania and one known orchard in the NT. This geographic diversity in growing regions ensures domestic access to Australian avocados year-round. Fruit imported from New Zealand supplements supply during spring and summer.
The Hass variety is the predominant avocado produced in Australia, accounting for approximately 81 per cent production, with Shepard accounting for about 16 per cent. Other varieties such as Reed, Sharwil, Gwen, Wurtz and Fuerte make up the balance.
Value of production and distribution
Annual value of avocado production, 2007–18
Distribution of avocado production by state and territory, 2017–18 (based on LVP)
Biosecurity plans, manuals and resources
Biosecurity Plan for the Avocado 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 Avocado 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 [email protected]
Orchard Biosecurity Manual for the Avocado Industry
The Orchard Biosecurity Manual for the Avocado 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.
Postcard
Promotional item to support the exotic plant pest hotline 1800 084 881.
