Biosecurity response activities in line with the national Tomato Brown Rugose Fruit Virus (ToBRFV) response plan continue on an infected property in northern Victoria.
As a part of National ToBRFV Response Plan, the infected property is replanting glasshouses and testing seedlings as they arrive. This testing has found a new positive detection of ToBRFV.
The source of the infection is under investigation. Given that the seedlings had only been on the property for a few days, it is unlikely that this new detection has originated from the Victorian property.
The seedlings were sourced from a commercial nursery in New South Wales, where there have been no previous detections or links to the virus.
Victoria's Chief Plant Health Officer, Dr Stephen Dibley said quarantine controls remain in place at the Victorian property and Agriculture Victoria is working closely with the business to prevent spread of the virus.
"We know this is a very challenging situation for the impacted business. Supporting business continuity and the welfare of all affected parties are central to our work".
''There is no evidence that ToBRFV is present in any other location in Victoria,'' Dr Dibley said.
Tomato brown rugose fruit virus is a highly contagious plant virus that affects tomatoes, capsicums and chillies.
The virus spreads easily through contaminated tools, hands, clothing and direct plant to plant contact including grafting and cuttings. It can also be transmitted in seeds and irrigation water.
The virus can remain viable in seed, plant waste and contaminated soil for months and once a crop is infected, the only way to eradicate the virus is by destroying all infected plants and material.
There is no risk to food safety or human health from eating tomatoes with this virus.
ToBRFV was detected in South Australia (SA) in August 2024 and is known to be present on four properties in SA and confirmed in Victoria in January 2025.
Victorian tomato and capsicum producers and home gardeners are encouraged to monitor their crops and to contact Agriculture Victoria if they suspect the disease might be present.
Producers should make a report if they suspect the presence of ToBRFV in their crops. You can:
- Report online via Unusual plant, insect, pest or disease form.
