Plant Health Australia

Plant Health Australia (PHA) is the national coordinator of Australia's plant biosecurity system, bringing together industry, government and research organisations to prevent, prepare for and respond to plant pest and disease threats. Through its partnership with Wine Australia and the broader viticulture sector, PHA helps strengthen vineyard biosecurity, protect grapevine health and safeguard the long-term sustainability of Australian wine production.

PHA has played a leading role in developing and maintaining the Biosecurity Plan for the Viticulture Industry and the Vineyard Biosecurity Manual, which provide practical guidance to grape growers on pest and disease prevention, surveillance, preparedness and response. These resources identify priority biosecurity threats, outline risk mitigation measures and support a coordinated national approach to protecting vineyards from both endemic and exotic pests and diseases.

Plant Health Australia is also a key partner in the Plant Biosecurity Research Initiative (PBRI), a national collaboration involving Wine Australia, other Research and Development Corporations and the Australian Government. Through this partnership, PHA helps coordinate and leverage investment in biosecurity research, diagnostics, surveillance, preparedness and capacity building. Initiatives supported through PBRI include projects focused on Xylella preparedness, national diagnostic capability, pest surveillance networks, genomic biosecurity tools and other programs that directly benefit Australian grapegrowers.

Beyond research and planning, PHA works closely with industry to improve awareness and preparedness through training, workshops, emergency response planning and industry engagement activities. Recent collaboration with Wine Australia has included biosecurity workshops for growers and technical specialists, helping strengthen understanding of emerging threats, response processes and practical on-farm biosecurity measures.

By providing national leadership, coordination and technical expertise, Plant Health Australia helps ensure the grape and wine sector remains prepared for future biosecurity challenges. Its work supports healthy vineyards, protects market access and contributes to the productivity, profitability and resilience of Australia's grape and wine industries.