External Rationale

The Department of Agriculture and Water Resources has finalised ‘the review of policy for the importation of Phytophthora ramorum host propagative material into Australia. The introduction of Phytophthora species into Australia would have significant economic consequences. Phytophthora ramorum is one of the most destructive pathogens of oak and a range of other host plants with substantial commercial value. If introduced, this species will cause plant death and increase the cost of production due to its regulatory impact. The department has therefore conducted an analysis of the scientific literature to review the appropriateness of the existing policy for the importation of propagative material for these Phytophthora hosts.

Further information about Sudden Oak death is available on the Plant Health Australia website at http://www.planthealthaustralia.com.au/pests/sudden-oak-death/