The industry is a significant user of post entry quarantine (PEQ) and ‘approved facilities’ to import new germplasm in various forms, including tissue culture, vegetative cuttings, seed and whole plants. This supports a diverse range of crops in the food, fibre and foliage industries valued at more than fifteen billion dollars nationally. Although the industry has traditionally had a small export focus, the richness of Australian
Flora offers ample opportunity for export growth. To ensure the longevity of the industry and the protection of the Australian environment, plant industries and the wider community, it is essential pest risks are identified, prepared for and effectively managed. These biosecurity responsibilities must be shared equally between governments, industry and the community. Accordingly, the NGI has a lead role to play in the biosecurity continuum through information dissemination, grower education, on-farm management and risk reduction strategies.