Biosecurity threats can have significant economic and operational consequences for Australian grain growers.
A well-prepared industry is essential to managing and mitigating the risks posed by emergency plant pest incursions. Industry Liaison Officers (ILOs) play a critical role in ensuring that growers' concerns and industry needs are effectively represented during a biosecurity response.
To strengthen this capability, Plant Health Australia (PHA) offers free ILO training, equipping participants with the knowledge and practical skills needed to contribute effectively during a biosecurity incident.
This training is designed for anyone in the grains industry, including growers, industry representatives, and those involved in biosecurity preparedness.
Why ILO Training is Valuable for Growers
During a plant pest incursion, it is essential that industry representatives are equipped to work alongside government biosecurity agencies.
ILOs ensure that the perspectives of grain growers are clearly communicated in response efforts, helping to protect farms, supply chains, and the broader industry.
By undertaking this training, growers and industry representatives will:
Gain a clear understanding of biosecurity response processes and how government agencies coordinate emergency responses
Develop practical skills in communication and decision-making to ensure the industry is effectively represented
Strengthen connections between growers, industry leaders, and government stakeholders to improve preparedness and collaboration
Having growers participate in ILO training ensures that the grains industry is well-represented in decision-making and that responses to biosecurity threats are informed by practical, on-the-ground knowledge.
Training Structure
The ILO training is designed to be accessible and practical, consisting of two components:
Online learning module – An introduction to the ILO role, covering key concepts and foundational knowledge
Face-to-face workshop – A hands-on session that builds on the online learning, providing real-world scenarios and opportunities for discussion
Workshops are held in partnership with state and territory agriculture agencies, ensuring that participants gain insights relevant to their region’s biosecurity response framework.
Who Should Participate?
This training is available to all growers and industry representatives within peak industry bodies that are signatories to the Emergency Plant Pest Response Deed (EPPRD).
It is particularly relevant for those who may be called upon to liaise between the industry and government in the event of a biosecurity emergency.
Be Prepared – Register for Upcoming Training
A strong, informed response to biosecurity threats benefits the entire grains industry.
Growers who participate in ILO training gain valuable knowledge that helps protect their farms and the broader sector from biosecurity risks.
South Australia: 29 April, Adelaide https://forms.office.com/r/ELTYz1U1bp
Tasmania: 8 May, location to be confirmed https://forms.office.com/r/J2Q875yS2Y
Western Australia: 28 August, Perth https://forms.office.com/r/5TE4BgbuRE
New South Wales: 16 October, Orange: https://forms.office.com/r/eiZNH8Brta
To learn more or register for an upcoming workshop, contact training@phau.com.au or visit Plant Health Australia’s training webpage.
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