National biosecurity and sustainable plant production program (NY20001)

What was it all about?

This investment strengthened the ability of Australian production nurseries to manage biosecurity risks and adopt sustainable production practices. The project helped growers improve plant health, protect market access, and build more resilient businesses in the face of increasing pest threats, climate pressure and supply chain challenges.

A national network of Extension Officers delivered on‑farm support, technical advice and training through 7,350 grower visits and widespread access to training and decision‑support materials. Growers were guided in adopting best management practices under the Australian Plant Production Standard, including NIASA, EcoHort and BioSecure HACCP.

The project addressed growing biosecurity risks and the need for consistent, practical systems to help nurseries meet regulatory, market access and sustainability requirements. It also ensured the nursery industry was effectively represented during emergency plant pest responses and maintained access to critical minor use pesticide permits.

As a result, growers are better prepared to manage pests and diseases, demonstrate best practice, and maintain access to domestic and interstate markets. Ongoing adoption of these systems is expected to support long‑term business resilience and industry‑wide biosecurity capability.

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Access practical tools delivered by this project, including:

• Audit Management System for digital record keeping
• Pest ID Tool for pest and disease identification
• eLearning courses
• Technical resource library.