11 July 2018
A revised response plan for Citrus Canker (Xanthomonas citri) was endorsed on 11 July 2018 by the National Management Group (NMG). Comprising all Australian governments and affected industries represented by Citrus Australia and Nursery Garden Industry Australia.
In early April 2018, citrus canker was detected in Darwin, Northern Territory, and subsequently in northern Western Australia. Surveillance, tracing, treatment and destruction activities in the Greater Darwin Rural Area and northern Western Australia are ongoing.
Citrus canker has not been detected in any commercial citrus orchards in either Northern Territory or Western Australia. All available evidence indicates it is restricted to potted plants in the home and garden sector. This has been supported through surveillance activities in citrus production areas.
All infected and at risk plant material is being dealt with under strict biosecurity procedures. Northern Territory and Western Australia have put movement controls and quarantine measures in place to contain the disease.
A strong partnership between the Northern Territory, Western Australia and affected Industries has greatly facilitated the ability to respond to this incursion in such a timely manner.
Tracing information has been shared with all jurisdictions with rapid follow up being taken, including inspections and diagnostic testing. As a result, citrus canker has not been detected in any other areas within Australia.
Citrus canker has been found previously and successfully eradicated from Australia.
If you think you have a plant with citrus canker, or if you have recently sourced citrus plants from the Northern Territory or northern Western Australia, please contact the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline on 1800 084 881. This will put you in touch with the primary industries or agriculture department in your state or territory.