In October Seed Potatoes Victoria and AuSPICA hosted an industry meeting in Bungaree (Ballarat), growers and industry stakeholders gathered to discuss the detection of Potato mop-top virus (PMTV) in Tasmanian seed and its implications.
Technical evidence presented confirms that PMTV has not been detected in any mainland seed potatoes, with more than 1,500 tonnes sampled and laboratory-tested using the internally prescribed diagnostic assay. However, there have been detections reported in some of the Tasmanian seed lots that were shipped to the mainland prior to the introduction of border restrictions. This underscores the need for continued vigilance and a strong, immediate response.
Fortunately, these seed lots were identified before planting, preventing the disease from becoming established on the mainland.
AuSPICA outlined the ongoing surveillance measures in place to maintain PMTV-free status in South Australia, Victoria, and New South Wales. These include:
- Routine visual inspection of crops and tubers for PMTV symptoms;
- Development of an under-grader sampling and laboratory testing program to establish a regional framework for area freedom;
- Ongoing targeted diagnostic testing as part of pre-export protocols to underpin and protect international market access;
- Rapid diagnostic response and structured data collection to support timely, evidence-based decision-making.
Grower compensation was also raised – The issue of compensation for growers affected by pest incursions was brought to the forefront. While the biosecurity levy — managed by AUSVEG as the peak industry body — is intended to fund emergency responses, concerns were raised about the current payment process.
It was noted that:
- The system for accessing compensation is complex and slow
- Payments lack the urgency needed to support businesses during critical times
- Delays in financial support are a barrier to rapid, coordinated industry action
Timely and transparent compensation is essential to protect grower livelihoods and ensure swift responses to biosecurity threats. Potatoes Australia continues to advocate for improvements that better reflect the needs of those on the ground.
The meeting concluded with unanimous support for the motion moved by representatives of Seed Potatoes Victoria that no seed sourced from Tasmania is be planted on the mainland, on the basis that the risk of introducing PMTV is unacceptably high.
The meeting outcome reflects strong industry consensus on maintaining rigorous biosecurity safeguards, ongoing surveillance, improved response frameworks, and transparent information sharing to protect PMTV-free status on the mainland.
Thank you to all who contributed to this important discussion and reaffirmed the industry’s commitment to protecting Australia’s potato industry and its export reputation.