Plant Health Australia (PHA) in partnership with Grain Producers Australia (GPA) has begun internal planning to deliver an industry simulation exercise program over the next five years as part of a new Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) investment.

The program is designed to strengthen the grains industry’s ability to manage biosecurity threats, helping to protect market access and uphold Australia’s reputation for clean, high-quality grain. It will deliver a range of targeted activities focused on core biosecurity principles, culminating in large-scale simulation exercises to test preparedness and identify opportunities for improvement.

The Australian Government, state and territory governments, biosecurity officers, peak industry bodies, researchers, diagnosticians, agronomists and growers will all be involved. The program includes a dedicated grains biosecurity coordinator, setting up a grains biosecurity advisory committee, updating the Grain Industry Biosecurity Plan and developing an Australian Grains Biosecurity Guide.

Activities starting this year include a knowledge survey, biosecurity training for industry members and webinars for growers. These efforts will help ensure a strong, coordinated approach to managing risks and responding quickly to new threats.

For more information, contact training@phau.com.au.