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Tasmanian Biosecurity Advisories

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.


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Biosecurity Advisory 27/2026 - Have your say on protecting Tasmania's snakes and wildlife

Biosecurity Tasmania (BT) is seeking feedback on recommendations from a recently completed Import Risk Analysis for live snakes entering Tasmania, including proposed new import requirements.

The analysis identified measures that could further reduce the risk of pests and diseases entering Tasmania through imports of snakes. We are now seeking stakeholder feedback on the proposed implementation of those recommendations before any decisions are made.

We want to hear from people and businesses that import, keep or handle snakes in Tasmania, including snake owners, importers, breeders, veterinarians and wildlife businesses, as well as anyone with an interest in protecting Tasmania's native snake populations. 

This consultation is focused on the proposed adoption and implementation of the recommendations in the Import Risk Analysis.​ It does not look at changing which species are permitted to be imported or kept in Tasmania, or who is permitted to keep snakes in Tasmania.​

Your feedback will help inform the final recommendations.

Why is this important?

Tasmania has three native snake species and a range of other unique wildlife that all depend on healthy ecosystems. 

Strong biosecurity protections help safeguard our wildlife and environment from pests and diseases.

Biosecurity Tasmania​​​ completed the analysis to review the risks associated with importing live snakes from mainland Australia. 

The review was undertaken after two viruses that were not previously known to occur in Tasmania were detected here in captive snake populations.

What is being proposed?

The Import Risk Analysis is a scientific assessment that looks at:

  • how pests and disease could enter Tasmania

  • the risks it could pose if it became established

  • what measures may be needed to reduce those risks.

The analysis found that Tasmania's current import requirements play an important role in reducing biosecurity risks associated with importing live snakes.

However, it also found that some disease risks remain and that advances in scientific knowledge and diagnostic testing now allow additional risks to be identified and managed.

The analysis recommends keeping Tasmania's existing import requirements and introducing additional safeguards that focus on identifying and managing disease risks before a snake enters Tasmania.

These additional measures are designed to strengthen Tasmania's biosecurity protections while continuing to allow approved snake imports under strict permit conditions.

The analysis recommends that imported snakes:

  • be tested for four specific diseases before entering Tasmania;

  • come from facilities with strong animal health and monitoring practices that have been certified by a veterinarian experienced with reptiles;

  • come from facilities where no relevant infectious diseases have been detected in the previous 12 months; and

  • have waste such as faeces (poo), shed skin and used enclosure material disposed of safely through an approved waste facility after arriving in Tasmania.

The analysis found that these measures, together with existing requirements such as quarantine, veterinary certification and parasite treatments, would significantly reduce biosecurity risks associated with snake imports.

Have your say

Consultation is now open and will run for six (6) weeks.

Before making a submission, we encourage you to read the Import Risk Analysis and the supporting frequently asked questions (FAQs).

A summary of the analysis and proposed import conditions is also available.

Submissions close at 5.00 pm on 20 November 2026.

You can provide feedback by:

Completing the online feedback form at: www.nre.tas.gov.au/snake-review​

Emailing your submission to: SnakeReview@nre.tas.gov.au​

Posting your submission to:

Attn: ​Chief Veterinary Officer
​Animal Biosecurity and Welfare Branch
Department of Natural Resources and Environment Tasmania
GPO Box 44
HOBART TAS 7001

Your feedback will help ensure that import conditions are fit for purpose and balance individual and business needs with the protection of Tasmania’s native wildlife, communities, businesses and natural environment.

More information

To read the analysis, access supporting materials, and make a submission, visit: www.nre.tas.gov.au/snake-review​

For questions about the consultation or the proposed import conditions, contact: SnakeReview@nre.tas.gov.au​

(9/10/2026)
Categories: Animals (general); Natural environment; Policy and Legislation; Wildlife;

Biosecurity Advisory 25/2026 – Have your say on a new draft response plan to protect Tasmania's honey bees and agriculture

What is happening?

Biosecurity Tasmania is seeking feedback on a draft Tasmanian 'Varroa destructor Initial Response Plan (Investigation and Alert Phase)'.

We want to hear from beekeepers, growers, businesses, industry groups and community members with an interest in protecting Tasmania's honey bees and agriculture. 

Your feedback will help inform the final Plan.

Why is this important?

Varroa destructor (varroa mite) is one of the most damaging pests of honey bees in the world. It weakens bee colonies and can cause major impacts on beekeeping and industries that rely on pollination.

While varroa mite has spread on mainland Australia, Tasmania remains free of varroa mite, and we want to keep it that way. Supported by strong biosecurity measures, Tasmania's island status gives us a unique opportunity to remain free of this pest.

Preparing and planning before an incursion occurs helps ensure Tasmania can respond quickly, effectively and proportionately should the pest ever be detected.

What is the purpose of the draft Plan?

The draft Plan focuses on the period immediately following a suspected detection of varroa mite in Tasmania.

The purpose of this ‘Investigation and Alert Phase’ is to:

  • Investigate and confirm whether varroa mite is present.

  • Prevent further spread where possible.

  • Determine how far the pest may have spread.

  • Assess whether eradication is technically feasible.

The draft Plan is intended to support rapid decision-making during the critical early stages of a response while keeping stakeholders informed. 

What does the draft Plan not cover?

This draft plan focused on the earliest stages of a potential response to varroa mite. 

It does not cover actions that would be undertaken as part of an eradication phase, a proof-of-freedom phase, or a move to ongoing management of varroa mite. This includes any future arrangements around hive destruction and compensation.

How to have your say​​

Consultation is now open and will run for 30 business days.

Before making a submission, we encourage you to read the draft Plan and supporting FAQs. An easy read summary of the draft Plan is also available.​​​​

Submissions close at 5.00 pm on 1 November 2026.

You can provide feedback by:

Completing the online feedback form at: www.nre.tas.gov.au/VarroaPlan​

Emailing your submission to Biosecurity.PlantHealth@nre.tas.gov.au ​

Posting your submission to:

Attn: Chief Plant Protection Officer
Plant Biosecurity and Diagnostic Branch
Department of Natural Resources and Environment Tasmania
GPO Box 44
HOBART TAS 7001

Your feedback will help ensure that the final Plan is fit for purpose and balances individual and business needs with the protection of Tasmania’s beekeepers, communities, primary industries and natural environment.

More information

To read the draft Plan, view the FAQs and make a submission, visit: www.nre.tas.gov.au/VarroaPlan​

For questions about the consultation or the draft Plan, contact: Biosecurity.PlantHealth@nre.tas.gov.au​

(21/9/2026)
Categories: Bee Biosecurity; Horticulture; Animals (general); Cropping; Information for Bass Strait Islands; Natural environment; Pasture; Policy and Legislation; Seeds;

Biosecurity Advisory 24/2026 – Supporting industry through long-term management of serpentine leafminer in Tasmania

Serpentine leafminer (Liriomyza huidobrensis; SLM) is an invasive pest of horticulture and vegetable production systems that is now wide-spread on mainland Australia.

SLM was first detected in Tasmania in June 2026. Following this, Biosecurity Tasmania set up a response to explore how best to deal with this pest, with potential options including eradication and long-term management.

There is no health risk to people from SLM and produce damaged by SLM is safe to eat. You should always follow good hygiene practices, including hand washing, when handling and preparing food.​

What is happening?

Tasmania is transitioning to long-term management of SLM.

Transition to management (T2M) focuses efforts on providing growers with the advice, tools and support needed to manage this pest in Tasmanian conditions.

Based on current evidence and expert advice, this approach will deliver the best long-term outcomes for growers and the broader industry.

Why is transition to management the best approach for this pest?

Following the detection of SLM in North West Tasmania, Biosecurity Tasmania undertook extensive surveillance, tracing and technical assessments to better understand the extent of the pest in Tasmania.

Based on current evidence, expert advice, and consultation with industry, eradication is not technically feasible because:

  • Eradication is only possible when a pest is contained and can be effectively treated. SLM can be difficult to detect when numbers are low.

  • SLM has been found at several locations across North West Tasmania, including sites that have no known connection to each other.

  • SLM is breeding on unmanaged host weeds. This means it is likely spreading in the environment, making it much harder to contain.

  • SLM can survive and reproduce on a wide range of crops and common weeds found in Tasmania.

  • Conditions across Tasmania are very suitable for SLM to establish, survive and spread.

  • Attempts to eradicate SLM in New South Wales, Victoria and Queensland were unsuccessful. In each case, authorities eventually moved from eradication to long-term management of the pest. This is also the case overseas.​

  • Industry stakeholders have indicated a need for timely decision-making to support business planning and preparedness.

A T2M approach will allow resources to be focused on supporting growers.

​What will happen next?

BT will complete its response activities in the next few weeks. Once completed:

  • Tasmania’s Chief Plant Protection Officer will revoke SLM as Prohibited Matter under the Biosecurity Act 2019. This will be published in the Tasmanian Government Gazette.

  • There will no longer be a legal requirement to report suspected SLM to Biosecurity Tasmania. Anyone concerned about unusual insect activity or crop damage is still encouraged to contact Biosecurity Tasmania.

  • Site-specific biosecurity directions issued during the response will be revoked. These were put in place during the response to help control and minimise spread from affected sites.

  • There will be no ongoing zoning or movement controls for SLM, reflecting a greater emphasis on prevention and shared responsibility. Growers and landholders can play a key role by maintaining good farm biosecurity practices and meeting their obligations under the General Biosecurity Duty, helping to protect agricultural production and reduce the pest's impact.

The transition will be implemented over a 12-month period, with Biosecurity Tasmania, AgriGrowth Tasmania​, the Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture (TIA) and industry stakeholders working collaboratively to build industry capability and establish a sustainable long-term management framework.

This will include:

  • working closely with affected industries;

  • providing ongoing market access information and support;

  • support for grower education and extension activities.

Support for growers

SLM is a pest that can be effectively managed.

TIA will lead a research, extension and industry support program to assist growers and affected industries with long-term management of SLM.

This program will include:

  • Tasmania-specific guidance materials;

  • webinars and industry briefings;

  • information on distribution, monitoring and management;

  • integrated pest management (IPM) advice; and

  • research to improve understanding of SLM and natural biological control in Tasmania.

Market access

Market access remains a priority. Western Australia is currently the only Australian jurisdiction with specific import requirements for SLM host material.

WA requirements apply to host species with leaves – this includes leafy vegetables, herbs, cut flowers and foliage. Nursery stock must already meet existing import requirements for WA. Growers should check with WA biosecurity authorities prior to exporting to that state.

Biosecurity Tasmania will continue to provide updates and support to industry.

What growers can do to help manage SLM

For most growers, day-to-day farm operations will continue as normal. However, T2M does not reduce the importance of good property biosecurity.

Growers should continue monitoring crops, maintaining good farm biosecurity and managing pests as part of normal farming operations.

Adult leafminers are typically poor fliers, moving only short distances between crops. The main risk for spread is through people moving infested plant material and high-risk inputs (e.g. mulch, fill, growing media etc.).

To reduce the risk of SLM spreading, or being introduced onto their property, growers should:

  • avoid moving potentially infested plant material;

  • maintain good farm biosecurity practices;

  • monitor crops and host plants regularly;

  • manage host weeds;

  • clean machinery, equipment, vehicles and boots between properties.

​Wellbeing support

Alongside the practical information and support being provided through government, research and industry, wellbeing support is also available.

If you need assistance or support, help is available through organisations such as Rural Alive and Well (RAW - 1800 729 827; www.ruralaliveandw​ell.com.au), your industry representative body, or other local support services. Reaching out for support is a positive step, and help is always available.

More information

For more information visit the Biosecurity Tasmania website (www.nre.tas.gov.au/SLM) or contact Biosecurity Tasmania on 1300 368 550.

(11/9/2026)
Categories: Cropping; Horticulture; Information for Bass Strait Islands; Invasive Species; Pasture; Plant pests; Policy and Legislation; Seeds;

Biosecurity Advisory 23/2026 – Serpentine leafminer update

​Biosecurity Tasmania (BT) is investigating ongoing detections of serpentine leafminer (Liriomyza huidobrensis; SLM) in North West Tasmania. 

SLM is a high-risk invasive pest of horticulture and vegetable production systems and is exotic to Tasmania. SLM has been present on mainland Australia since 2020 and is considered established in New South Wales, Queensland and Victoria.

There is no health risk to people from SLM and produce damaged by SLM is safe to eat. People should always follow good hygiene practices, including hand washing, when handling and preparing food.

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

What we know

BT has confirmed SLM at two new sites in North West Tasmania through ongoing surveillance efforts – there are now five (5) known affected sites.

The new locations are within close proximity of the known affected area.

It is not currently known how or when SLM entered Tasmania, and BT is determining whether a population has established here.

BT has advice from the federal Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry that there are no international trade implications relating to this detection. 

Domestically, the only jurisdiction that currently has import controls in place for SLM is Western Australia. Independently of the detection in Tasmania, WA has advised that it is updating its host lists for SLM. Growers should check with WA biosecurity authorities prior to exporting to that state.

What we’re doing​

BT is working with impacted properties to manage the detections and minimise the risk of spread from the sites. 

Response activities are continuing in North West Tasmania. BT would like to thank all landholders that have engaged with us in support of these efforts

BT continues to work with growers, industry representatives and technical specialists, including the Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture, to better understand the situation and inform the ongoing response.

Actions will continue to be guided and adjusted using best available science-based evidence.

What you can do  

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

If you see suspect possible SLM or are simply concerned it might be 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 safely do so.

  • ​Report it to Biosecurity Tasmania - Phone: 1300 368 550; Email: biosecurity.tasmania@nre.tas.gov.au.

Due to the presence of other leafminers in Tasmania, BT is particularly interested in the following:

  • ​Heavy leafminer infestations on commercially grown plants, particularly if the plants have not been infested previously.

  • Infestations on plants that are not commonly attacked by other leafminers 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

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 unusual pests, weeds and diseases 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​.

(28/8/2026)
Categories: Cropping; Horticulture; Pasture; Plant pests; Policy and Legislation;

Biosecurity Advisory 22/2026 - New Animal Welfare (Dogs) Regulations 2026 now in effect

What is happening?

The Tasmanian Government has introduced new standards for dog welfare, with the Animal Welfare (Dogs) Regulations 2026 commencing on 19 August 2026. 

The new Regulations replace the previous 2016 Regulations and provide a modern, clearer framework for dog welfare in Tasmania.

The new Regulations support better welfare outcomes for dogs by strengthening standards relating to:

  • housing and shelter

  • exercise and daily care

  • health and veterinary care

  • breeding practices and breeding animal welfare

  • transport and handling

  • training and management practices. 

The new Regulations were developed following extensive consultation with dog owners, breeders, veterinarians, animal welfare organisations, councils and the broader community. Nearly 300 submissions were received and helped shape the reforms. 

What dog owners should know

For most dog owners, the new Regulations reflect practices they are already following.

Dog owners must ensure that their dogs:

  • have access to suitable food, water and shelter

  • receive appropriate exercise and social interaction

  • receive veterinary care when needed

  • are provided with a safe and comfortable living environment. 

The new Regulations also introduce updated standards for dog breeding and provide clearer requirements around the use of electronic collars and other management practices. 

Why these changes matter

Tasmanians value the welfare of their animals. The new Regulations provide clearer standards, support responsible dog ownership and help ensure dogs across the state receive appropriate care throughout their lives. 

​What hasn't changed

Dog owners must still comply with other Tasmanian laws, including the:

  • Animal Welfare Act 1993

  • Dog Control Act 2000

  • local council requirements relating to dog ownership and management.

Work is continuing on future amendments to the Dog Control Act 2000 to further strengthen Tasmania's dog management framework.

More information

The new Regulations can be viewed on Tasmanian Legislation Online.

​Information and guidance material are available on the NRE Tas website: www.nre.tas.gov.au/dog-welfare​

(21/8/2026)
Categories: Animal welfare; Animals (general); Information for Bass Strait Islands; Policy and Legislation;

Biosecurity Advisory 21/2026 – Have your say on new draft measures to protect Tasmania's honey bees and agriculture

What is happening?

Biosecurity Tasmania is seeking feedback on a draft Import Risk Analysis (IRA) for varroa mite and proposed import conditions for apiary products.

We want to hear from beekeepers, growers, businesses, industry groups and community members with an interest in protecting Tasmania's honey bees and agriculture. 

Your feedback will help inform the final recommendations.

Why is this important?

Varroa mite is one of the most damaging pests of honey bees in the world. It weakens bee colonies and can cause major impacts on beekeeping and industries that rely on pollination.

Tasmania remains free of varroa mite, and we want to keep it that way. Following the spread of varroa mite on mainland Australia, Biosecurity Tasmania has reviewed the risk of the pest reaching and establishing in Tasmania.

Supported by strong biosecurity measures, Tasmania's island status gives us a unique opportunity to remain free of this pest.

What is being proposed?

The draft analysis is a scientific assessment that looks at:

  • how varroa mite could enter Tasmania,

  • the risks it could pose if it became established, and

  • what measures may be needed to reduce those risks.

The draft analysis makes 5 key recommendations. In summary:

  1. Keeping varroa mite classified as prohibited matter in Tasmania.

  2. Maintaining and updating import requirements for products and pathways that could introduce varroa mite into Tasmania.

  3. Reviewing import conditions every year and the risk analysis within five years.

  4. ​Reviewing surveillance and inspection activities for arriving vessels, freight and vehicles.

  5. Increasing community awareness about varroa mite and helping people to understand their biosecurity responsibilities.​

​Key proposed import conditions include:

  • ​New processing requirements for some honey and beeswax products.

  • ​Allowing the import of products such as honey, beeswax, propolis, bee pollen, royal jelly, bee venom and bee semen where they meet Tasmania's biosecurity requirements.

Together, all these measures aim to reduce the risk of varroa mite entering Tasmania, while supporting a practical and effective biosecurity system.

How to have your say

Consultation is now open and will run for 30 days.

Before making a submission, we encourage you to read the draft analysis and supporting FAQs. Easy read summaries of the draft analysis and proposed import conditions are also available.

Submissions close at 5.00 pm on 16 September 2026.

You can provide feedback by:

Completing the online feedback form at: www.nre.tas.gov.au/VarroaIRA​

Emailing your submission to Biosecurity.PlantHealth@nre.tas.gov.au 

Posting your submission to:

Plant Biosecurity and Diagnostic Branch
Department of Natural Resources and Environment Tasmania
GPO Box 44
HOBART TAS 7001

Your feedback will help ensure that import conditions are fit for purpose and balance individual and business needs with the protection of Tasmania’s beekeepers, communities, primary industries and natural environment.​​

More information

To read the draft IRA, view the FAQs and make a submission, visit: www.nre.tas.gov.au/VarroaIRA​​

For questions about the consultation or the proposed import conditions, contact: Biosecurity.PlantHealth@nre.tas.gov.au​

(17/8/2026)
Categories: Bee Biosecurity; Information for Bass Strait Islands; Natural environment; Pasture; Policy and Legislation; Seeds; Cropping;

Biosecurity Advisory 19/2026 – Serpentine leafminer update

Biosecurity Tasmania (BT) is investigating a third detection of serpentine leafminer (Liriomyza huidobrensis; SLM) in North West Tasmania.

SLM is a high-risk invasive pest of horticulture and vegetable production systems and is exotic to Tasmania. SLM has been present on mainland Australia since 2020 and is considered established in New South Wales, Queensland and Victoria.

There is no health risk to people from SLM and produce damaged by SLM is safe to eat. You should always follow good hygiene practices, including hand washing, when handling and preparing food.

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

What we know

This is the third confirmed detection of SLM in Tasmania and was identified through delimiting surveillance being undertaken by BT.

The new location has been linked to an existing infested site and there is no known spread within the broader environment at this time.

It is not currently known how or when SLM entered Tasmania, or whether a population has established here.

BT has advice from the federal Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry that there are no international trade implications relating to this detection.

Domestically, the only jurisdiction that currently has import controls in place for SLM is Western Australia. Independently of the detection in Tasmania, WA has advised that it is updating its host lists for SLM. Growers should check with WA biosecurity authorities prior to exporting to that state.

What we're doing

BT is working with impacted properties to manage the detections and minimise the risk of spread from the sites. 

Surveillance and tracing activities are continuing in North West Tasmania to determine if SLM is present beyond the currently known detection sites. BT would like to thank all landholders who have engaged with us in support of these efforts.

What you can do  

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

If you see suspect possible SLM or are simply concerned it might be 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 safely do so.

  • Report it to Biosecurity Tasmania: Phone: 1300 368 550; Email: biosecurity.tasmania@nre.tas.gov.au

Due to the presence of other leafminers in Tasmania, BT is particularly interested in the following:

  • Heavy leafminer infestations on commercially grown plants, particularly if the plants have not been infested previously.

  • Infestations on plants that are not commonly attacked by other leafminers 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

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 unusual pests, weeds and diseases to Biosecurity Tasmania if you are concerned: 

Phone: 1300 368 550; Email: biosecurity.tasmania@nre.tas.gov.au​

More information

More information, including images of SLM and SLM damage, is available on our serpentine leafminer page​.

(4/8/2026)
Categories: Cropping; Horticulture; Pasture; Plant diseases; Plant pests; Policy and Legislation;

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 17/2026 - Further Pest Detection - Serpentine leafminer (SLM)

​Biosecurity Tasmania (BT) is investigating a second detection of serpentine leafminer (Liriomyza huidobrensis; SLM) in North West Tasmania. SLM is a high-risk invasive pest of horticulture and vegetable production systems and is exotic to Tasmania. SLM has been present on mainland Australia since 2020 and is considered established in New South Wales, Queensland and Victoria.

What we know

This is the second confirmed detection of SLM in Tasmania and was identified through delimiting surveillance being undertaken by BT.

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

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

What we’re doing

BT is working with impacted properties to manage the detections and minimise the risk of spread of SLM from the sites. 

BT is continuing with delimiting surveillance in the region as well as tracing activities to better understand the potential distribution of the pest.  BT would like to thank all landholders that have engaged with us in support of these efforts.

Surveillance activities are continuing in North West Tasmania to determine if SLM is present beyond the currently known detection sites.

What you can do  

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

If you see suspect possible SLM or are simply concerned it might be 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.

Due to the presence of other leafminers in Tasmania, Biosecurity Tasmania is particularly interested in hearing from persons in the following cases:

  • Heavy leafminer infestations on commercially grown plants, particularly if the 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

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.

(17/7/2026)
Categories: Cropping; Horticulture; Pasture; Plant diseases; Plant pests; Policy and Legislation;

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;

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