Completed project
Optimising chemical and cultural control of onion white rot (VN20007)
This project developed a soil DNA test and improved management strategies to help onion growers better assess and manage the risk of onion white rot.
Ongoing project
Regulatory support and response co-ordination (pesticides) (MT24008)
Delivery Partner: DTS Pty Ltd
The regulatory support and response coordination project aims to provide Australian horticultural industries support to navigate complex domestic and international pesticide regulations. The project supports industry sustainability by safeguarding access to essential plant protection products, enabling stakeholders to develop effective response strategies and make informed investment decisions.
Challenge
Australian horticulture faces increasing regulatory pressures that threaten access to essential plant protection products. Changes to domestic and international pesticide regulations can impact pest management, market access, and industry competitiveness. The complexity of regulatory frameworks, evolving global standards, and potential trade barriers pose challenges for growers and stakeholders.
Without timely intervention and coordinated responses, industry risk losing access to critical pest management tools. Engaging with regulators, understanding proposed changes, and mitigating potential disruptions require specialised expertise. The industry must stay ahead of regulatory shifts to maintain compliance, protect investments, and ensure continued productivity in a competitive market.
Response
To address these challenges, the project provides expert regulatory analysis, engages with authorities, and coordinates industry responses to potential threats. Regular updates, risk assessments, and participation in Codex and APVMA meetings ensure stakeholders are informed and prepared.
The project focuses on proactive engagement with regulators to advocate for industry needs, assess potential pesticide restrictions, and recommend strategic actions. Through practical communication and engagement, the project helps industry stakeholders navigate complex regulations, safeguard access to necessary plant protection products, and develop strategies that align with international standards while maintaining compliance and market access.
Benefit
The project will strengthen Australian horticulture’s ability to retain and gain access to essential pest management tools, ensuring long-term productivity and market competitiveness. By providing timely updates and expert guidance, it enables growers to adapt to regulatory changes with minimal disruption. Coordinated responses to regulatory reviews protect market access and industry interests, while enhanced engagement with regulatory bodies fosters stronger advocacy.
The project also supports strategic decision-making by delivering risk assessments and regulatory insights, empowering stakeholders to make informed investment choices. Ultimately, this initiative safeguards the industry’s sustainability and resilience against evolving global and domestic regulatory landscapes.
This multi-industry project is a strategic levy investment across multiple Hort Innovation Funds
© 2026 Horticulture Innovation Australia Limited.
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