Australia's citrus industry owes much of its success to the country's robust biosecurity framework, which includes proactive border seizures. While it may sound surprising, these interceptions are a vital part of protecting the industry from devastating pests and diseases capable of wiping out entire crops.
Source: © Rafael Ben Ari | Dreamstime.com - Australian border protection point
Every year, around 5% of biosecurity risk materials detected in passenger luggage include citrus, posing a real threat to Australia's horticultural sector. Fortunately, unauthorised citrus plant materials found at the border are not merely discarded but sent to specialised facilities like Auscitrus for quarantine, identification, and thorough testing. This process ensures any pathogens present are eliminated, allowing the industry to prevent outbreaks and maintain high health standards.
Auscitrus, located in Dareton, New South Wales, plays a critical role in this system. Housing 307 varieties of citrus, this nursery is where mother trees are kept disease-free, producing up to 1.2 million high-quality buds and 1,300 kilograms of seeds each year. These disease-free buds and seeds are sold to nurseries and farmers, ensuring true-to-type, healthy citrus stock.
Source: Auscitrus - Dareton, NSW facility protecting and propagating citrus varieties
Interestingly, if a particular variety starts to appear more frequently at the border, it indicates market demand. Auscitrus then tests and legally propagates that variety, reducing the temptation for illegal smuggling and meeting growers' needs.
Thanks to investments by Hort Innovation and the tireless work of biosecurity teams, Australia’s citrus sector continues to thrive, benefiting both growers and consumers. Hort Innovation spokesperson Karina Keisler says this project is very long term. “This is a great example of how Hort Innovation works closely with industry to protect and grow Australia’s incredible produce, not just for today but for generations to come.” says Karina Keisler.
Ultimately, border seizures don’t just shield the citrus industry from biosecurity threats; they also help identify emerging market trends and support the sustainable development of high-quality citrus crops.
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