What was it all about?

This project strengthened the Australian citrus industry’s preparedness for exotic pest threats through the CitrusWatch program. Delivered nationally between 2021 and 2026, the program improved surveillance, early detection capability and biosecurity awareness across commercial citrus regions and higher-risk urban areas.

Key achievements included surveillance at 124 locations across Australia, deployment of 6,670 sticky traps and collection of more than 1,200 citrus plant samples for diagnostic testing. More than 20,700 surveillance records were generated to support pest status and market access claims, while a Citrus Pathway Risk Assessment model helped identify areas at greatest risk of exotic pest entry and establishment.

The project addressed the ongoing threat posed by exotic citrus pests and diseases, particularly the Asian citrus psyllid and huanglongbing (HLB) complex, along with other high-priority pests that could affect production and market access. Building on previous citrus biosecurity investments, surveillance activities expanded into northern Australia and other higher-risk locations.

Other key outcomes included expanding a national network of surveillance volunteers to 400 members, updating the citrus industry's biosecurity plan, developing host lists and surveillance protocols for high-priority pests, and producing training and awareness materials for growers and the wider community. Together, these activities strengthened the industry's ability to detect, prepare for and respond to future exotic pest incursions.