The National Response Plan version 5 was developed and implemented in 2020 in order for the NT to demonstrate proof of freedom from citrus canker in 2020. Version 5 is focused on verification of absence and proving freedom in the NT by the end of 2020 with the overall aim and outcome to remove regulatory measures across Australia and return to baseline surveillance.
Delimitation and surveillance activities to support the eradication efforts were completed at the end of 2019. The program transitioned into gathering evidence of absence from citrus canker in early 2020 to support the NT’s claim of successful eradication. This evidence will be collated into a ‘proof of freedom’ report, which will be submitted to the national committees for consideration by the end of December 2020.
On acceptance of this claim, the remaining restrictions and controls on citrus host plants in the NT, as well as the other states and territories will be lifted, and there will be a return to normal trade and surveillance across Australia.
The update also reveals that the canker eradication program has been implemented under budget, due to ongoing efficiencies. Plant Health Australia has advised that from 1 January to September 4, $242,480 has been collected from the Citrus Emergency Plant Pest Response levy.
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Nathan Hancock
Citrus Australia
Tel: +61 (0) 3 5023 6333
E: nathan.hancock@citrusaustralia.com.au
www.citrusaustralia.com.au