On Thursday 28 November 2024, the Plant Health Australia (PHA) Board of Directors convened at the PHA Offices in Canberra for Board Meeting 117 (BM117).

The Board congratulated the PHA team for their preparatory work in delivering the 24th Annual General Meeting, 38th Plant Industry Forum, 4th Government Members Forum, 15th Members Forum and the 40th Emergency Plant Pest Response Deed (EPPRD) Signatories meeting held 26-27 November in Canberra.

The Board noted the substantial attendance rate of Members at the Member meetings, the continuous support for the EPPRD from Members and the positive feedback received on the fit-for-purpose and effective arrangements under the EPPRD. Additionally, there was recognition of the high level of transparency and inclusivity in the Member meetings. The Board also acknowledged the Member key focus on additional resources and the need for sustainable funding for the plant biosecurity system.

During BM117, the Board discussed several key matters including:

• the appointment of the Deputy Chair, Committee Chair and Members for the Finance and Audit Committee and People and Culture Committee
• the national deployment of digital systems including a demonstration of the AUSPestCheck® system
• a review of the September financial report and progress on the implementation of the Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) solution
• a review of the risk management plan and annual report on insurance coverage
• the Psychosocial hazards survey report and action plan.

The Board will meet again in February 2025.