Discussion paper prepares growers for ABGC’s new TR4 program
In June 2023, the Queensland Government’s $42m funding to control and contain Panama TR4 will finish. This means the Panama TR4 Program will change hands from Biosecurity Queensland to ABGC, with a transition to industry process currently under way.
What does this mean to you?
· Currently, growers are required to fund 100% of the TR4 Program’s delivery through the Banana Plant Health Australia (PHA) Levy ($1.6m in total) from July 2023.
· The current operating budget of the TR4 Program is $4m which means ABGC is changing the size, structure and priorities of the new program.
· These changes will impact TR4 surveillance and diagnostics as well as compliance on infested properties.
· A banana biosecurity Code of Practice is being considered as a tool for industry to self-regulate the spread of TR4.
The ABGC has published a Discussion Paper for growers to understand more about the transition. All growers are encouraged to read the paper and offer feedback directly to ABGC’s TR4 Industry Transition Leader, Geoff Wilson by calling 0418 644 068 or email geoff@abgc.org.au
To arrange a hard copy of the discussion paper to be mailed please email geoff@abgc.org.au