This project delivered an updated biosecurity plan to help protect Australia’s tree nut industries from exotic pests and diseases. 

The main outcome was the completion of the Biosecurity Plan for the Australian Tree Nut Industries, which identifies the pests that pose the greatest risk to almonds, chestnuts, hazelnuts, macadamias, pecans, pistachios and walnuts. The plan also includes practical biosecurity action plans for the almond and macadamia industries to strengthen preparedness and response capability. 

The project reviewed and updated pest threat information, including High Priority Pests and Exotic Pests to Monitor, and added missing elements needed to finalise the plan. Industry and government representatives worked together through Biosecurity Reference Panels to review risks and agree on priority actions. Due to limited resources across some industries, detailed action plans were developed for almonds and macadamias, with learnings intended to support other nut industries over time. 

The updated biosecurity plan will give growers, industry bodies and governments a clear pathway to improve early detection, preparedness and response to exotic pests. For almond and macadamia growers, the action plans will guide future investment, training and on-farm biosecurity activities. 

Over time, this work will help reduce the risk of yield losses, higher management costs and loss of market access, supporting a more resilient and coordinated tree nut industry.