Plant Health Australia (PHA) was proud to participate in the 6th Northern Australia Food Futures Conference, held in Darwin from 8–9 April 2025.

This year’s theme, Innovative Agribusiness in Northern Australia: Nurturing Natural Assets for Future Growth, showcased the region’s unique opportunities and the importance of collaboration across sectors.

PHA CEO Sarah Corcoran presented Strengthening plant biosecurity: Plant Health Australia’s partnerships protecting northern Australia, emphasising the need for coordinated national efforts to detect, prevent and respond to plant pests and diseases — particularly in high-risk regions like the north.

Sarah’s presentation explored how partnerships, people and practical digital solutions are critical to strengthening Australia’s plant biosecurity system.

The presentation reinforced that biosecurity is a shared responsibility — from surveillance and diagnostics to emergency response and data-driven tools. Sarah also highlighted PHA’s commitment to building capability and preparedness across diverse communities and landscapes, including through initiatives such as CitrusWatch and work to support Indigenous-led forestry in northern Australia.

PHA staff also hosted a booth in the trade pavilion, where attendees engaged with digital innovations such as electronic Plant Health Assurance Certificates (ePHAC) and the National Biosecurity Training Hub. Visitors were particularly interested in how these systems support market access, improve efficiency and contribute to the early detection of plant pest threats.

Beyond the conference sessions, PHA staff attended several networking events, including the Welcome Reception at Parliament House, hosted by the Honourable Joshua Burgoyne MLA, and the Taste of the Territory cocktail function, hosted by Elders at the Darwin Botanical Gardens.

PHA remains committed to strengthening biosecurity through partnerships, innovation and capability building — particularly in northern Australia, where the stakes and opportunities are high.