The Australian Walnut Industry Association represents the biosecurity interests of walnut 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, the walnut industry was valued at $33 million (LVP). In-shell production of 13,000 tonnes was produced from 3,600 hectares. The industry is predicted to expand to 17,000 tonnes (4,300 hectares) by 2021 as current growers expand their orchards and new growers enter the industry.
The Australian walnut industry operates in most states of Australia. Major walnut production areas in Australia are on the east coast of Tasmania; the Goulburn Valley near Shepparton, the Murray Irrigation area near Kerang and Swan Hill in Victoria; the Riverina near Griffith in NSW; and Manjimup in WA.
About 70 per cent of Australia’s walnut production is exported with greatest demand for in-shell walnuts in China, Turkey and Italy.
Australia is free from major walnut exotic pests and diseases and the Australian Walnut Industry Association prioritises biosecurity to maintain its status. Biosecurity is included in the Australian Walnut Industry Five Year Strategic Plan – 2015 to 2020 and it is part of the Industry Development Officer’s role. The industry website has a biosecurity section to raise awareness of biosecurity among growers, and a representative attends PHA meetings and Australian Government Biosecurity Roundtables.
Throughout 2017 the Australia Walnut Industry Association participated in Emergency Plant Pest Response Deed processes, including the eradication response for khapra beetle. The association is funding projects to establish an Emergency Plant Pest Response Levy and an Owner Reimbursement Cost Framework for the walnut industry.
The walnut industry is covered by version 3.0 of the nut industry biosecurity plan.
Value of production and distribution
Annual value of walnut production, 2007–16
Distribution of walnut 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.
Promotional item to support the exotic plant pest hotline 1800 084 881.
