Know what’s normal to spot problems early

Pests and diseases are often noticed during everyday work on farm.

Knowing what is normal for your property, crops and region makes it easier to spot when something doesn’t look right.

It could be a pattern of damage on a leaf, an insect you don’t usually see, or something not quite right with your crops.

Why regular monitoring matters

Regular crop monitoring is one of the most effective ways to detect pests and diseases early.

Early reporting gives the best chance of managing a new or unusual pest or disease before it becomes established.

The earlier a problem is identified, the greater the chance of managing it before it spreads further and affects production, market access or neighbouring properties.

Monitoring also supports day-to-day management decisions by tracking pest activity, crop health and seasonal changes over time.

Look while you work

Monitoring and surveillance does not always require formal surveillance activities or specialist equipment. Often, the most valuable observations happen during routine farm work.

Checking crops while irrigating, spraying, harvesting or moving between paddocks can help identify unusual symptoms or pest activity early. When checking crops, closer inspection of leaves, stems and roots where appropriate, can help pick up issues that may otherwise go unnoticed.

Knowing which pests and diseases are a risk to your industry is also important. Familiarity with common pests, seasonal conditions and expected crop growth makes it easier to recognise when something does not fit normal seasonal patterns.

Find plant pests and diseases relevant to your industry by searching in Plant Health Australia’s resource centre.

Keep records, even when nothing is found

Keeping records of crop checks, pest observations and nil findings can help build a clearer picture over time.

Recording that no unusual pests or symptoms were found may seem minor, but this information can support traceability, demonstrate monitoring activities and help provide evidence for market access and pest freedom claims.

Record keeping templates are available to help make this easier.

Talk to others in your region

Pests and diseases do not stop at property boundaries.

Talking with neighbours, agronomists and local industry networks about seasonal conditions, pest activity and unusual observations can help identify emerging issues earlier. Sometimes broader patterns become visible across a region before they are obvious on a single property.

If something doesn’t look right

If you suspect a plant pest or disease on your property, take the following steps:

• mark and isolate the area so you can find it again
• take photos or video of symptoms, pests or damage. If possible, make sure GPS data is attached
• collect a sample if you can safely do so. Double-bag it and place it in the freezer until biosecurity staff advise next steps
• minimise movement of people, vehicles or equipment near the affected area
• clean tools, boots, and clothing that may have come into contact with affected plants or soil
• do not move or dispose of any plant material unless directed by biosecurity staff.

Most importantly, call the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline 1800 084 881 immediately.