While Australia has a comprehensive biosecurity system, protecting the citrus industry from exotic pests remains a continual challenge. Effective pest surveillance maximises the likelihood of the early detection of new and emerging pests and provides data on pest distribution and pest absence to support trade.

The National Citrus Biosecurity Surveillance Strategy has been developed to provide a framework for national coordination and implementation of surveillance activities carried out by government and industry for exotic citrus pests and pests of market access concern.

The strategy outlines improved pre-border and border risk and pathway assessment to better understand and target surveillance efforts. For post-border surveillance, it describes an enhanced partnership approach of industry, government and community in a national program. Surveillance systems will be supported by diagnostic tools and triage networks, and data collection and reporting methods will enable surveillance efforts to be captured, monitored and improved.

Funding for the development of this strategy comes from the Australian Government’s Agricultural Competitiveness White Paper, the government’s plan for stronger farmers and a stronger economy.