Inspecting crops for signs of new pests is one way you can protect Australia’s plant industries from exotic pests, as early detection and reporting improves the chances of successfully containing or eradicating new pests.
The guide is in two sections:
Biosecurity and surveillance – which describes key aspects of on-farm biosecurity, how to undertake pest surveillance in the field and packing sheds, handling pest samples and reporting unusual finds.
Identification of key exotic pests – which provides information on the high priority exotic pests for several of the horticultural crops grown in northern Australia. The guide has been developed to increase your awareness of these pests and provide you with information on what to do if you suspect you have found one.
Author(s): Plant Health Australia
Published: March 28, 2023
Date added: June 23, 2021
Keeping an eye on pests how to report a suspect pest
Any unusual plant pest, disease or weed should be reported.
Reporting hotlines operate in both Australia and New Zealand (numbers shown below).
Pests can also be reported using apps, such as MyPestGuide™ for Australia, that allow you to submit a photo of the pest or symptoms.
Every report is taken seriously and handled confidentially. Management of calls varies in different areas, but to the same end.