What was it all about?

This project strengthened biosecurity preparedness for the Australian avocado industry by developing and validating rapid, reliable diagnostic tools for high‑priority exotic pests and diseases. It improved Australia’s ability to detect and respond quickly to potential biosecurity threats, helping protect orchard productivity, market access and industry profitability.

The project focused on building diagnostic capability for four priority threats: Persea mite, avocado seed moth, avocado scab and laurel wilt. Researchers developed and validated new molecular diagnostic assays, including rapid tests that can be used with minimal equipment. National diagnostic protocols were prepared to support consistent identification across laboratories, and training workshops were delivered to build capability within government and industry diagnostic networks. Diagnostic support was also provided to the Avocado Nursery Accreditation Scheme to ensure planting material supplied to growers remained free of avocado sunblotch viroid.

The project addressed the risk that exotic pests and diseases pose to the Australian avocado industry, particularly as global avocado production expands and trade pathways increase. Early detection and accurate identification are critical to preventing costly incursions, orchard losses and trade restrictions. Prior to this project, diagnostic tools for several high‑risk pests and pathogens were limited or not validated for Australian conditions.

As a result of this work, growers and the wider industry will benefit from faster and more accurate diagnostics, improved surveillance capability and reduced biosecurity risk. The project supports Australia’s pest‑free status for key avocado threats, underpins clean planting material systems, and helps maintain domestic and export market access. These outcomes contribute to the long‑term sustainability and resilience of the Australian avocado industry.