A nationally agreed approach to prevent and prepare for khapra beetle has been released today by the Australian Government.
Minister for Agriculture and Northern Australia David Littleproud said the National Khapra Beetle Action Plan 2021-2031 would guide national efforts to promote vigilance about khapra beetle, and to build capability to deal with the risk posed by this pest.
"Khapra beetle is Australia's number two National Priority Plant Pest and the number one plant priority pest for grains," Minister Littleproud said.
"It is not present in Australia, but it is a highly invasive and poses a major threat to Australia's grains industry, with an outbreak estimated to cost $15.5 billion to Australia over 20 years.
"In 2020-21, there were an unprecedented 19 khapra interceptions at the border including in consignments of baby highchairs, white goods and in cardboard.
"That is why the government acted swiftly to provide $14.5 million to implement stronger measures to minimise the risk posed by khapra beetle, in addition to our over $400 million investment in biosecurity in the recent budget.
"Biosecurity is everyone's responsibility, and the success of the National Khapra Beetle Action Plan 2021-2031 will depend on cooperation between jurisdictions, plant industries, importers, our community and visitors to Australia."
If you suspect khapra beetle in imported goods, visit www.awe.gov.au/report or call the See. Secure. Report hotline on 1800 798 636.
Read the National Khapra Beetle Action Plan 2021-2031 and learn about urgent actions to protect against khapra beetle here.
