On 17 January, Agriculture Victoria reported the presence of tomato brown rugose fruit virus (ToBRFV) within a tomato glasshouse in Victoria, tracing back to seedlings transported from South Australia. This incident, being linked to a specific movement of plant material, has not shown evidence of ToBRFV in other Victorian locales, following extensive state-wide surveillance. Quarantine measures are actively enforced at the affected site, with collaborative efforts between Agriculture Victoria and the involved enterprise aimed at preventing the spread and facilitating eradication.
The National Management Group (NMG), encompassing representatives from all Australian Governments and industry entities adherent to the Emergency Plant Pest Response Deed (EPPRD), convened on 21 November to deliberate on the ToBRFV eradication strategy in South Australia. The NMG has allocated $5 million towards the eradication initiatives, which include continuous testing, surveillance, and monitoring, underpinning the resumption of tomato production and trade. These efforts are financially supported by both government and industry sectors under the EPPRD framework.
Ausveg continues its active participation in the national response to the ToBRFV outbreak in South Australia since its detection in August, liaising with the Commonwealth regarding cost-sharing specifics. The organization advocates for a biosecurity approach that minimizes the risk of spread while ensuring the seamless movement and supply of produce. Emphasis is also placed on the swift progression of the national eradication response and the transparent communication of test results and information to growers.
Under the EPPRD, Ausveg represents levy-paying vegetable industries during national biosecurity responses to exotic plant pests or diseases, ensuring industry perspectives are considered. Ausveg 's involvement is pivotal in reflecting key principles within the Response Plan, aimed at safeguarding industries from ToBRFV, facilitating rapid return to trade for affected businesses, ensuring equitable financial contributions, and incorporating reimbursement costs for impacted growers.
The roles of government and industry in biosecurity responses are clearly delineated, with state and territory governments managing within-jurisdiction responses and the Federal Government overseeing national borders and trade negotiations. Industry representation, including Ausveg, plays a crucial role in supporting levy-paying sectors during such responses.
Source: AusVeg