Having strong Farm Biosecurity is about preventing, managing and stopping the spread of pests and diseases. A Biosecurity Plan is best practice for growers to protect their farms from pests, disease and weeds. By practicing a Biosecurity Plan, growers can protect their crops, minimise financial losses, and help protect the agricultural industry in their region.
Biosecurity is everyone’s responsibility – growers, government, consultants, industry members and the broader community.
Michael is a Northern Territory grower whose strong Farm Biosecurity Plan meant the Cucumber Green Mottle Mosaic virus did not reach his farm, despite it being found on properties nearby. He was able to keep trading throughout the emergency due to his strong biosecurity plan and practices.
Farm inputs Anything moved onto your property can be a potential source of pests and diseases for livestock and plants, which must be monitored. As well as sources of water, feed, and fertiliser.
Farm outputs Responsibilities continue when plant products leave the farm gate, keep accurate records.
People, vehicles and equipment Diseases, pests and weeds can enter a farm and be spread by equipment and vehicles, either directly or in plant material, soil or manure. It is important to maintain equipment hygiene and ensure all vehicles that visit and on your property are clean and well maintained.
Production practices Good on-farm hygiene reduces the risk of spreading pests and diseases. good hygiene practices for water, product packaging, storage facilities, waste materials and plant propagation activities.
Weeds Additionally, plant pests and weeds not only pose a nuisance but can harm your business if not actively managed.
Train, plan & record Make sure staff are well trained about biosecurity and that you can trace where animals or plants have come from and where they went. Keep accurate records of what was bought and sold.
Banana industry
Banana best management practices: On-farm biosecurity
Contact: Australian Banana Growers’ Council
info@abgc.org.au
07 3278 4786
www.abgc.org.au
Citrus industry
Biosecurity Manual for Citrus Producers
Contact: Plant Health Australia
biosecurity@phau.com.au
02 6215 7700
www.planthealthaustralia.com.au
Mango industry
Orchard Biosecurity Manual for the Mango Industry
Contact: Plant Health Australia
biosecurity@phau.com.au
02 6215 7700
www.planthealthaustralia.com.au
Vegetable industry
AUSVEG Guide – How to protect your farm, AUSVEG Guide – Action Planner
Contact: AUSVEG
science@ausveg.com.au
03 9882 0277
www.ausveg.com.au
Other checklists can be found here
Contact: Farm Biosecurity
www.farmbiosecurity.com.au
Plant Health Australia : 02 6215 7700
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