The Star Mail has received confirmation that some funding will be forthcoming to help grassroots efforts to prevent the spread of the Queensland Fruit Fly (QFF) long-term.
An Agriculture Victoria spokesperson said further funding from the Victorian Budget 2025/26 will support the Goulburn Murray Valley, Sunraysia and Yarra Valley Queensland Fruit Fly Governance Groups through to June 2027 to design and deliver long-term QFF management programs.
“These regions have some of Victoria’s most significant horticultural areas,” they said.
“Focusing on these regions ensures continued trade opportunities for Victoria’s fruit and vegetable export markets.”
QFF has established pest status in Victoria, meaning it is widespread and beyond eradication.
QFF prevention investment ramped up in 2017 and since, the Victorian Government has invested $14.3 million into management efforts targeting both home and industry growers. Over 41,000 people have been involved and over 120,000 unwanted fruit trees have been removed in priority regions.
Discussions between the state government, governance groups and local government are ongoing to help shape future fruit fly support.
More information on how to best protect produce from QFF is available at agriculture.vic.gov.au/biosecurity/pest-insects-and-mites/priority-pest-insects-and-mites/queensland-fruit-fly/controlling-queensland-fruit-fly-in-home-gardens.
