The CitrusWatch Program
CitrusWatch is a collaborative, national program aimed at protecting Australian Citrus by improving industry preparedness for key exotic pest threats. From commercial citrus production zones to high-density urban landscapes, the program links government agencies, research programs, community groups, and citrus businesses through surveillance, research, training and education.
Industry Biosecurity Strategy
The risk posed by exotic citrus pests and diseases is growing. As an industry we are increasing surveillance and capability enhancing operations and are assessing how best to protect and prepare citrus growing businesses more efficiently and effectively. The industry strategy highlights four priorities and 16 activity areas to guide efforts from 2023-2028. The Strategy is underpinned by a detailed Implementation Plan.
Training & Resources
We are taking steps to support access to biosecurity training and to create industry opportunities for information exchange, upskilling and boosting of biosecurity leadership capability. We aim to increase the overall ability of the Australian citrus industry to address biosecurity related market disruptions in a structured and informed way. Understanding how to detect and report priority pests & diseases is an important part of protecting the industry.
Queensland Fruit Fly
There are more than 4000 fruit fly species across the world, of which 350 are of economic importance. Queensland fruit fly (Bactrocera tryoni; Qfly) and Mediterranean fruit fly (Ceratitis capitate) are species of primary economic concern. Victoria remains free from Medfly, despite its presence elsewhere in Australia. Qfly is now an established pest in Victoria and is widely distributed across the greater Sunraysia region and requires targeted management.
Ready to join?
If you are not already a member, please show your support and join Citrus Australia today. Collectively we can make big things happen.
You are not logged in
If you are not already a member, please show your support and join Citrus Australia today. Collectively we can make big things happen.