7 May 2014
This Biosecurity Advice notifies stakeholders that a policy recommendation has been made to not allow release of the tortricid moth Cydia succedana for the biological control of gorse (Ulex europaeus). Release of Cydia succedana has not been recommended due to the identification of significant off-target effects and potential consequences.
The Department of Agriculture has completed a risk analysis report assessing an application from the Department of Primary Industries, Victoria to release the tortricid moth Cydia succedana for the biological control of gorse (Ulex europaeus). In support of this application, the Department of Primary Industries, Victoria has provided a submission detailing results of host specificity testing, along with other relevant information. This submission is included as an attachment to the final risk analysis.
A preliminary draft risk analysis report was distributed to state and territory departments of primary industry and the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) through the Plant Health Committee (PHC). The Department of Agriculture also consulted with the Department of the Environment prior to the release of the draft report. Comments received via this consultation process were incorporated into the draft risk analysis report.
A draft risk analysis report was released for a 30 day stakeholder consultation period on 27 February 2014. A written submission from one stakeholder was considered in the preparation of the final report. The comment agreed with the draft and its recommendations.
The risk analysis report has identified potentially significant off-target effects on lupins and native species and consequences that could be associated with the release of Cydia succedana. The risk is estimated to be low, which does not meet Australia’s appropriate level of protection (ALOP). The level of risk is considered to be too high to recommend release of this organism.
Printed copies fo the final risk analysis report, attachment and information about the risk analysis process can be provided, if required.
In accordance with the IRA handbook 2011, this risk analysis has been undertaken as a non-regulated analysis of existing policy.
Tom Aldred
First Assistant Secretary
Biosecurity Plant