Media release
Australia moves to long-term banana freckle management to safeguard jobs and supply
27 June 2025
Australia moves to long-term banana freckle management to safeguard jobs and supply
A new national strategy marks a major turning point in Australia’s fight against banana freckle, with industry, government and researchers now shifting from eradication to long-term management to safeguard growers, regional jobs and supply.
The Banana Freckle National Management Group has agreed to transition from eradication to long-term management – a major milestone in the national biosecurity response.
This decision, confirmed in late 2024, reflects a pragmatic, science-based approach that balances risk, supports continuity of supply and protects the livelihoods of Top End growers and their communities.
So far, 29 properties across the Northern Territory have been affected since the outbreak began in May 2022, underscoring the need for sustained vigilance.
“This is about protecting not just bananas, but the people and places behind them,” said John McDonald, Director of R&D and Biosecurity at Greenlife Industry Australia (GIA).
“You’ve got boots on the ground, practical measures in place and a community-level effort that’s making a real difference. That kind of hands-on collaboration is critical if we want a resilient industry.”
Banana freckle (Phyllosticta cavendishii) affects both fruit and foliage, reducing yields and marketability. While harmless to humans, it poses a serious risk to commercial viability – and to families whose livelihoods rely on banana production.
The current outbreak, detected in May 2022 in the NT, is unrelated to the strain declared eradicated in 2019.
Now, the focus is firmly on containment, with early detection, strict on-farm biosecurity, and disease-free planting material seen as key to limiting spread.
Production nurseries are working closely with government and growers to supply clean plants and strengthen the frontline response.
GIA, which represents the nursery sector on the national Consultative Committee on Emergency Plant Pests, is urging adoption of practical, science-based tools.
“We’re encouraging production nurseries and growers to stay engaged, access the latest diagnostics and take advantage of new response tools,” Mr McDonald said. “The more eyes we have out there, the better our collective response.”
Growers are being urged to stay alert: report symptoms early and maintain strong biosecurity practices on farm.
“It’s not just about bananas,” Mr McDonald added. “It’s about protecting local jobs, families and communities. That’s what this response is really about.”
For advice on managing banana freckle or to report suspected symptoms, visit https://www.outbreak.gov.au/current-outbreaks/banana-freckle or contact your local extension officer.
About banana freckle
Banana freckle is caused by the fungus Phyllosticta cavendishii and affects both Cavendish and non-Cavendish banana varieties. It spreads through infected planting material and water splash. While not harmful to humans, it can cause severe cosmetic damage and reduce commercial value.
MEDIA ENQUIRIES
Ingrid Lee-Scott, Dentsu Creative Public Relations
M: 0410 047 767
E: ingrid.leescott@denstu.com