The Pistachio Growers’ Association (PGAI), in collaboration with Plant Health Australia and government agencies, is actively reviewing the National Nut Industry Biosecurity Plan. Originally published in 2016, the updated plan is due to be finalised in late 2025. The plan will enhance pest identification, risk mitigation, and emergency response protocols across the nut industry.
Key features of the revised plan include:
- A priority pest list identifying 4 high-priority and 40 exotic pest/disease threats
- Pre-emptive strategies at national, state, regional and property levels for exclusion and management of serious plant pests
- Contingency plans aligned with PLANTPLAN for rapid response
- Expanded awareness resources
PGAI has endorsed PLANTPLAN (Australian Emergency Plant Pest Response Plan) and will use this plan to manage responses to any emergency plant pests. PGAI will continue to represent growers at national forums, review pest lists, and participate in emergency response exercises, ensuring that representatives of the industry are sufficiently qualified to do so.
As the pistachio industry grows in scale and significance, PGAI will continue to ensure biosecurity remains front and centre protecting growers, consumers, and Australia’s agricultural future.