Cropping & Soil
1 July, 2026
Speak up and help protect our grains
EVERYONE connected to agriculture plays a critical role in protecting our cropping systems.
Grain growers, agronomists, transport operators and rural communities are our first line of defence against exotic pests, weeds and diseases and should remain vigilant and report anything unusual.
“We urge everyone to have a good look for anything unusual during their regular ‘drive by’ and in paddock crop assessments,” leading biosecurity officer plants, grains and biosecurity Jim Moran said.
“Check around equipment and structures, and even while opening packages delivered by mail, especially spare parts from overseas.
“If you see something unusual in a crop, in or around storage facilities, on machinery, or even in imported packaging - report it immediately so that it can be identified.”
Mr Mora encouraged everyone not to remain silent. Early detection is critical.
“Reporting immediately gives our grain industry the best chance to get rid of an exotic pest before it establishes,” he said.
“Delays can lead to long-term costs through lost markets, increased control measures, reduced crop options and ongoing management impacts.
“Exotic plant pests, weeds and diseases can damage our natural environment, destroy food production systems, agriculture industries and impact the way we farm and live.”
Mr Mora said they often have no natural competitors or established control options which allows them to spread rapidly.
Any exotic pest could disrupt Australia’s export reliant grain industry, costing millions through lost markets, eradication, controls and production losses.
Despite strict border controls and import regulations it is possible for pests to slip through even after quarantine treatments and via other pathways, including people, mail, containers, cargo and natural pathways such as wind and insects.
Victoria’s Plant Biosecurity Act 2010 requires individuals to report anything they believe could be an exotic plant pest or disease.
For example, it’s a statutory requirement in the Victorian Plant Biosecurity Act 2010 to “notify if a person knows or has reason to suspect that an exotic pest or disease is present.”
Significant penalties apply for failing to do so.
There is no downside to reporting but there can be serious consequences if you don’t.
For a list of high-priority exotic plant pests, visit the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Plant, pests and diseases page: www.agriculture.gov.au/biosecurity-trade/pests diseases-weeds/plant
To report something suspicious, simply call the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline on 1800 084 881 or log it online at agriculture.vic.gov.au/biosecurity/pest-insects-and-mites/report-an-unusual-plant insect-pest-or-disease.