Diseases

Diseases are caused by pathogens such as a fungi, viruses, bacteria or parasites. Pathogens can be carried by water, air or soil. They can be carried by insects, animals and plants. They are generally difficult to find, so we don't know much about them. Diseases which affect agricultural and horticultural crops can spread to rainforest species, especially related fruit trees such as native banana trees.

This section deals primarily with three major pathogens which are attacking vegetation or frogs:

  • Chytrid fungus
  • Myrtle rust
  • Phytophthora


See under diseases on the menu bar to click on these pages.

Invasive pests - a threat to the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area

The Wet Topics Management Authority has produced a brochure which highlights the importance of biosecurity and management of invasive pests in the Wet Tropics. The brochure also stresses the need for education, research and community participation to help control a range of weeds, feral animals and diseases in the Wet Tropics. This includes collaboration between government agencies, local governments, landholders and industry groups.You can download a copy of the brochure below:

 

Diseases in Queensland

The Biosecurity Act 2014 makes everyone responsible for managing biosecurity risks and threats under their control. This general biosecurity obligation means they must take all reasonable steps to ensure they do not spread a pest, disease or contaminant. The Act designates a range of prohibited and restricted biosecurity matter.

Prohibited matter

Prohibited matter can be biosecurity matter like a disease, exotic fish, insect pest, pest animal or a weed that is not found in Queensland. If it was to enter Queensland it would significantly impact our health, way of life, the economy and the environment. Prohibitied matter is listed in Schedule 1 of the Act.

Restricted matter

Restricted matter can be biosecurity matter like a plant and animal disease, noxious fish, insects, pest animal or weeds that are found in Queensland. Restricted matter is considered to have a significant impact on human health, social amenity, the economy and the environment. Specific actions are required to be undertaken that limit the impact of this matter by reducing, controlling or containing it. Restricted matter is listed in Schedule 2 of the Act.

There are seven categories for restricted matter. Each category places restrictions on the dealings with the biosecurity matter or requires actions to be taken to minimise the spread and adverse impact of the biosecurity matter. Categories 1 and 2 have specific urgent reporting requirements.

For more information on the Biosecurity Act 2014, see the biosecurity section of the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries website.

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