Department of Natural Resources and Environment Tasmania

Latest Advisories

Subscribing to get Biosecurity Tasmania Advisories is the best way you can keep yourself up-to-date and fully informed about Tasmanian biosecurity issues. Our Advisories cover topics such as changes or proposed changes to Tasmania’s import regulations, animal health and welfare, plant health, forthcoming regulation reviews and opportunities for public comment, new or emerging pest/disease risks and a range of other matters related to Tasmania’s biosecurity.

357 advisories found for Natural+environment.

Biosecurity Advisory 20/2026 - Tasmania records its first positive H5 bird flu case

Tasmania has recorded its first positive case of H5 avian influenza (H5 bird flu) on Wednesday 12 August. The detection was in a wild brown skua found within the Rocky Cape National Park in the north-west of the state.

The bird was identified through the Department of Natural Resources and Environment Tasmania (NRE Tas) surveillance strategy and was immediately collected by Biosecurity Tasmania and sent for testing.

Response arrangements have been activated, and samples are being sent to the Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness in Geelong to confirm the positive detection.

This is a detection in a single wild bird. There is currently no evidence of any outbreak or mass mortality in Tasmania, and there have been no detections in commercial poultry in Tasmania or Australia.

Following this detection, NRE Tas will be expanding its planned surveillance in and around the detection area, including King Island and the Furneaux Group. This will include further wildlife monitoring, sample collection and risk assessment activities.

It is important to remain vigilant for signs of bird flu in wild birds, other wildlife and poultry. If you see sick or dead birds or wildlife, remember to Avoid. Record. Report.

Report sightings to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.

More information and developments on the detection of H5 bird flu in Tasmania will be available online at www.nre.tas.gov.au/BirdFlu

(13/8/2026)
Categories: Animal welfare; Animals (general); Bird flu; Information for Bass Strait Islands; Natural environment; Wildlife;

Biosecurity Advisory 18/2026 - Tasmanian Biosecurity Awards 2026: Nominations Extended

Biosecurity Tasmania has extended the nomination period for the 2026 Tasmanian Biosecurity Awards. If you, your team, business, organisation, community group, or someone that you know, has contributed to supporting and improving biosecurity in Tasmania, you now have until Friday 14 August 2026 to submit a nomination.

There are two award categories:

Tasmanian Community Biosecurity Award
Tasmanian Industry Biosecurity Award

Tasmania's biosecurity success depends on the support of people across our industries and communities. Often working behind the scenes, these individuals and organisations play a vital role in helping to keep our state free from pests, weeds and diseases. The Awards are an opportunity to recognise their contributions and inspire others to play their part in protecting the things that make Tasmania a special place to work, live and play.

To make a nomination, visit www.nre.tas.gov.au/awards by midnight Friday 14 August 2026.

(28/7/2026)
Categories: Animal welfare; Animals (general); Bee Biosecurity; Cropping; Freshwater pests; Gene technology; Horticulture; Information for Bass Strait Islands; Invasive Species; Livestock; Marine pests; Natural environment; Pasture; Plant diseases; Plant pests; Policy and Legislation; Seeds; Timber imports; Wildlife;

Biosecurity Advisory 15/2026 – Pest detection – Serpentine leafminer (SLM) (correct link to website)

Biosecurity Tasmania (BT) is investigating a detection of serpentine leafminer (Liriomyza huidobrensis; SLM) at a commercial grower site in North West Tasmania. SLM is a high-risk invasive pest of horticulture and vegetable production systems and is exotic to Tasmania.

What we know

This is the first confirmed detection of SLM in Tasmania. SLM has been present on mainland Australia since 2020 and is considered established in New South Wales, Queensland and Victoria.

The detection came after a concerned grower reported unusual insect activity on host plants to BT. Initial diagnostics indicated that the sample was likely SLM, with a high degree of confidence. Molecular testing results confirmed SLM on 23 June 2026.

It is not currently known how or when SLM entered Tasmania, or whether there are any other populations here.

SLM is classed as Prohibited Matter in Tasmania under the Biosecurity Act 2019.

BT undertook a rapid risk analysis when SLM was first detected in NSW. The analysis concluded that treatment options were not practical or cost-effective at the time, so there are no SLM specific import requirements for hosts entering Tasmania.

What we’re doing

BT is working with the impacted grower to manage the detection, with site-specific biosecurity directions in place to control and minimise spread.

BT is also investigating potential movements, including trace back/forward of stock to better understand the potential distribution of the pest.

BT will work with affected Tasmanian industries to understand and determine actions to be taken following this detection.

What is serpentine leafminer?

SLM is a leafmining fly in the genus Liriomyza that is exotic to Tasmania.

The larvae of this group of flies cause damage to plants by tunnelling through the leaves as they feed – these tunnels cause visible damage known as ‘mines’. High level of infestations can reduce plant growth and yields.

SLM and other exotic Liriomyza flies are a threat to Australian agriculture as they are known pests to over 200 different plant species, including crops such as potato, beans, peas, brassicas, lettuce, celery, tomato and cucurbits. They may also impact ornamental plants such as chrysanthemum, gypsophila, ranunculus and other nursery plants. Numerous weed species can act as reservoir hosts, allowing populations to persist between crop cycles.

Leafminers similar to SLM are very common in Tasmania and entomologists can only make an accurate diagnosis can only be made by rearing larvae through to the adult stage or using molecular testing.

Common leafminers in Tasmania include L. chenopodii (beet leafminer), L. brassicae (cabbage leafminer), Chromatomyia syngenesiae (cineraria leafminer) and Scaptomyza flava (turnip leafminer).

What you can do

Growers and members of the public should look out for distinctive squiggly white lines on plant leaf surfaces caused by feeding damage from leafminer larvae.

Due to the presence of other leafminers in Tasmania, reporting should be prioritised to the following cases:

Heavy leafminer infestations on commercially grown plants, particularly if the infested plants have not been infested previously.
Plants that are not commonly infested by leafminer species already present in Tasmania, including:

Aster sp. (e.g. daisies)
artichoke
Bellis perennis (lawn daisy)
beans
Calendula sp. (e.g. pot marigold)
carnation
celery
cucumber
coriander
Gladiolus sp.
pumpkin
Ranunculus sp. (e.g. buttercups)
squash
sunflower
Tagetes sp. (e.g. marigold)
Verbena sp.
Viola sp.
zucchini

If you see leafminer damage on these plants, or suspect possible SLM:

Restrict access to the area and don’t move any plants or plant material off-site.
Note the location and get a photo of the damage and leafminers if you can.
Report it to Biosecurity Tasmania: Phone: 1300 368 550; Email: biosecurity.tasmania@nre.tas.gov.au.

Good farm biosecurity helps to prevent the spread of pests, weeds and diseases. Remember to look out for new and/or unusual pests, weeds and diseases in crops, production areas and in high-risk inputs (e.g. mulch, fill, new planting material). Report them to Biosecurity Tasmania if you are concerned.

More information

More information, including images of SLM and SLM damage, is available on our Serpentine Leafminer page.

(23/6/2026)
Categories: Cropping; Horticulture; Natural environment; Pasture; Plant pests; Policy and Legislation;

Biosecurity Advisory 13/2026 - Nominations for the 2026 Tasmanian Biosecurity Awards are now open

The Tasmanian Biosecurity Awards recognise individuals, organisations or businesses for significant contributions to biosecurity in Tasmania.

This is an opportunity to recognise those in our communities and industries who have gone above and beyond to help protect our future.

Biosecurity is foundational to Tasmania’s economic, cultural and natural values. We all share the benefits of our strong biosecurity system, as it:

underpins our multi-billion-dollar agri-food production and export industries; and
helps to protect our unique flora, fauna and ecosystems that are of immeasurable value to Tasmanians. This includes to our First Nations peoples, the original and ongoing custodians of Land and Sea Country, as well as visitors to our state.

The awards recognise two categories, the Tasmanian Community Biosecurity Award and the Tasmanian Industry Biosecurity Award.

In 2025 the Community Award was won by Lalani Hyatt and the Industry Award by Nathan Saunders from Elders Rural Services Tasmania.

Lalani was recognised for her role in Landcare Tasmania’s Rainbow Lorikeet Management Group. Lalani was recognised for her commitment to the volunteer group and their dedication to the ongoing management of invasive rainbow lorikeets in Tasmania.

Nathan was recognised for his work supporting the Tasmanian livestock industry with new mandatory sheep and goat electronic identification (eID) requirements that came into effect on 1 January 2025.

If you, your team, business, organisation, group, or someone that you know, has contributed to supporting and improving biosecurity in Tasmania, you can submit a nomination today.

Nominations for the 2026 awards will close midnight 31 July 2026.

More information about the awards and the online nomination form can be found at – www.nre.tas.gov.au/tasbiosecurityawards

(12/5/2026)
Categories: Animal welfare; Animals (general); Bird flu; Cropping; Freshwater pests; Gene technology; Horticulture; Information for Bass Strait Islands; Invasive Species; Livestock; Marine pests; Natural environment; Pasture; Plant diseases; Plant pests; Policy and Legislation; Seeds; Timber imports; Wildlife;

Biosecurity Advisory 06/2026 – Commencement of the 2026 Tasmanian calicivirus (RHDV1) release for rabbit control

Rabbits are considered to be Australia’s most significant invasive pest. They impact many landowners, as well as Australia’s threatened species and environments.

Biosecurity Tasmania will be releasing calicivirus (RHDV1) in Autumn 2026 to help Tasmanian landowners manage rabbit populations. Releases will occur in locations where conditions are suitable.

Calicivirus will not be released at locations where there was a previous release in the past 12 months in order to reduce the risk of rabbit populations becoming immune to calicivirus.

A calicivirus release will not eliminate every rabbit at a site. As a result, it is important that land managers employ other rabbit control methods following a knockdown of the rabbit population from a calicivirus release. This will help to both lower numbers as far as possible and prevent reinfestation, reducing the need for repeated control operations.

Calicivirus is not a poison and is specific to rabbits (and hares). There is no risk of calicivirus transferring to other animals or humans.

For more information about calicivirus, how to protect pet rabbits, and calicivirus release sites, visit the Department of Natural Resources and Environment Tasmania website at: https://nre.tas.gov.au/rabbits

Advice about rabbit management and control techniques is available on the NRE Tas European Rabbits webpage, or contact Biosecurity Tasmania at: invasivespecies@nre.tas.gov.au

(13/3/2026)
Categories: Animal welfare; Animals (general); Invasive Species; Natural environment; Pasture; Wildlife;

Biosecurity Advisory 05/2026 – Release of the 'Cat Management in Tasmania – Discussion Paper' for public consultation

The Department of Natural Resources and Environment Tasmania (NRE Tas) has released the Cat Management in Tasmania - Discussion Paper for consultation.

This discussion paper is the first stage in developing a new Tasmanian Cat Management Plan, which will guide cat management across the state for the next five years.

The Discussion Paper includes questions so you can tell us what you would like to see in a new plan.

Submissions must be received by 5pm Friday 15 May 2026.

To read the discussion paper and find out how to have your say, visit: https://nre.tas.gov.au/cat-management

(10/3/2026)
Categories: Animal welfare; Animals (general); Invasive Species; Policy and Legislation; Wildlife; Natural environment;

Biosecurity Advisory 03/2026 - eID Tag Rebate Scheme Expanded

Electronic identification (eID) for sheep and goats is mandatory in Tasmania.

eID tags are National Livestock Identification System (NLIS) approved tags that contain a microchip. They contain a unique electronic identification for an individual animal .

The eID tags are not just for commercial producers of sheep and goats, they must be used even if you own only a few backyard animals.

Under a Grant Scheme (Grant Round 2 – eID Tag Rebate Scheme) support has been available to purchase tags and equipment. On 1 February 2026, the eID Tag Rebate Scheme was expanded.

The rebate will now apply to all eight year-of-birth colours, as well as post-breeder tags. The rebate will continue to be applied at the point of sale. This means you do not need to apply for this discount, simply check with your rural supplier.

The rebate will continue to be $1 per ear tag and $4 per hock strap (goats). However please note that the Tag Rebate Scheme will close on 30 June 2026.

More information on the eID Tag Rebate Scheme can be found on the Grant Round 2 webpage.

For further information, visit www.nre.tas.gov.au/eID for contact us at:

Phone: 0429 968 078
Email: sheepandgoateID@nre.tas.gov.au

(12/2/2026)
Categories: Animal welfare; Animals (general); Information for Bass Strait Islands; Livestock; Natural environment; Policy and Legislation; Pasture;

Biosecurity Advisory 02/2026 - Applying Agricultural Chemicals in Tasmania

Agricultural and veterinary chemicals play an important role in primary production by protecting crops and livestock from unwanted pests, weeds and diseases.

Misuse of chemicals can result in risks to human health, animal health and the environment.

The Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals (Control of Use) Act 1995 and its supporting legislation sets out the legal requirements for users of agricultural and veterinary chemicals in Tasmania.

There are a number of specific Codes of Practice setting out requirements, guidelines and recommendations for the use and application of agricultural chemical products. Many of these requirements and guidelines are specific to particular types of use, such as ground spraying activities, aerial spraying or spraying in public places.

Codes of Practice

A number of requirements are common to all users. Some of the most important include:

Only using registered agricultural chemical products.
Using products that are the least toxic to people and the environment that can do the job effectively.
Ensuring agricultural chemical products are applied properly by following their label instructions (unless variations have been granted via permit).
Ensuring products are stored in a dry, well-ventilated area not easily accessed by children or animals.
Ensuring spray equipment is in good condition and appropriate protective/safety equipment is used.
Ensuring that all spray equipment and associated machinery is rinsed and washed down after spraying activities.

These are legal requirements and there are penalties for non-compliance.

Commercial operators

In addition, businesses providing a pest, weed or disease control service must hold a Commercial Operator Licence. Employees applying agricultural chemical products must have a Certificate of Competency relevant to the type of work they perform. For details see Licences and Certificates.

Records of spraying operations must be kept, including the date, location and name and rates of any chemical products applied.

If spraying in cropping situations or where produce is intended for consumption, records need to include:

location
date
type and area of crop sprayed
amount and name of chemical applied
application rates
equipment used

Where possible, windspeed, direction and air temperature should also be included.

If you are a commercial grower or producer intending to spray, we encourage you to notify occupiers of properties and buildings within 100 metres of any area to be sprayed however, this is not a mandatory requirement. Notification should be given at least one, but preferably two days in advance. The information you provide should include details of the sprays to be used and the steps that will be taken to minimise drift.

'A person must not carry out or cause to be carried out agricultural spraying which adversely affects any person, plants, stock, agricultural produce, water bodies, groundwater or soil, on premises, or any premises, not owned or occupied by the person carrying out or causing to be carried out the agricultural spraying unless that person has obtained the permission of the owner or occupier of the premises.' (s.30. Damage by spray drift, Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals (Control of Use) Act 1995)

NOTE – causing damage by spray drift is an offence carrying potential fines of up to $41,000.00. For full details of the requirements specific to your circumstances refer to the relevant Codes of Practice.

(11/2/2026)
Categories: Animal welfare; Animals (general); Cropping; Freshwater pests; Horticulture; Information for Bass Strait Islands; Livestock; Invasive Species; Marine pests; Natural environment; Pasture; Plant diseases; Plant pests; Policy and Legislation; Seeds;

Biosecurity Advisory 38/2025 - APVMA Public Consultation Now Open on Proposed Changes to Anticoagulant Rodenticide Use

The Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) has finalised its risk assessments on anticoagulant rodenticides and is proposing substantial changes to products in this category. These proposed changes will help to protect the safety of people and the environment, especially native birds and mammals.

If you would like to have your say, further information is available at www.apvma.gov.au/news-and-publications/news/apvma-proposes-sweeping-changes-anticoagulant-rodenticide-use

Questions about the proposed changes or this public consultation process can be directed to the APVMA at chemicalreview@apvma.gov.au

(19/12/2025)
Categories: Animal welfare; Animals (general); Cropping; Gene technology; Horticulture; Information for Bass Strait Islands; Livestock; Natural environment; Pasture; Policy and Legislation;

Biosecurity Advisory 35/2025 - Tomato potato psyllid detections in Victoria

Tomato potato psyllid (TPP) is an insect pest that affects crops including potatoes, tomatoes and capsicums. It feeds on other plants too including eggplants chillies, tamarillos, and sweet potatoes. Its feeding can cause plants to become stunted, with curled and yellow leaves. TPP is established in Western Australia and was detected on the Bellarine Peninsula in Victoria in 2024. In October 2025 it was found in a Melbourne backyard outside of the Bellarine Peninsula Restricted Area.

TPP does not impact food safety and there is no risk to consumers.

This latest detection in Victoria will affect the movement of host and carrier materials between states, including to Tasmania. Due to this, Biosecurity Tasmania will be amending the current import requirements for TPP (Import Requirement (IR) 46 under the Plant Biosecurity Manual Tasmania 2024 edition).

These changes to import requirements will help to minimise the risk of TPP entering Tasmania while still maintaining necessary trade pathways between Tasmanian and Victoria for produce.

Agriculture Victoria is also rapidly implementing required accreditation arrangements to provide confidence in product movements to Tasmania being free of TPP.

The changes we are making to IR46 expand the treatment options available for TPP entering Tasmania and will include:

Methyl bromide fumigation or irradiation for host and carrier produce (fruit and vegetables), cut flowers and nursery stock.
Insecticide and export inspection for host and carrier nursery stock.

These changes will come into effect on 8 December 2025.

These changes to IR46 are new and relate to a plant pest that Victorian businesses have not had to previously consider managing, particularly when exporting goods to Tasmania.

Some commodities may not be as readily available as usual while businesses adapt their processes to meet the new requirements in IR46. This may include imported cut flowers, imported nursery stock, and some imported produce.

We do not anticipate this will impact food availability overall or cause food shortages. However, you may need to seek out alternative shops, businesses or suppliers to source some imported items while Victorian businesses adjust to these changes.

Shops and businesses that stock local or Tasmanian-grown flowers, nursery stock and produce will be unaffected.

The revised IR46 will be established through the issuance of a Group Permit and will be available on our website from 8 December 2025 at www.nre.tas.gov.au/biosecurity-tasmania/the-tasmanian-biosecurity-compendium/group-permits

It is important to note this Group Permit will override the IR46 currently listed in the Plant Biosecurity Manual Tasmania 2024 edition. A new version of the manual with the revised IR46 will be issued in due course.

TPP can also spread a serious disease called Candidatus Liberibacter solanacearum (CLso), which causes “zebra chip" in potatoes. This disease creates dark stripes inside potatoes, making them unmarketable and reducing crop yields. CLso is not currently present in Australia.

Further updates on the TPP detections in Victoria are available on the Agriculture Victoria website.

To stay informed on any changes to regulation for produce entering Tasmania from Victoria, visit the Department of Natural Resources and Environment webpage.

(5/12/2025)
Categories: Cropping; Gene technology; Horticulture; Information for Bass Strait Islands; Invasive Species; Natural environment; Pasture; Plant diseases; Plant pests; Policy and Legislation; Seeds; Timber imports;

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