Surveillance program for white spot syndrome virus

A Surveillance program for white spot syndrome virus (WSSV) was authorised on 4 January 2019 under the Biosecurity Act 2014.

Biosecurity matter

The biosecurity matter to which the Surveillance program relates is white spot syndrome virus (WSSV) which is the causative agent of white spot disease.

Purpose of the program

The Surveillance program provides the legislative basis to implement the control and containment of white spot disease.

Its purpose is to:

• delimit the geographic distribution of WSSV in the State of Queensland
• monitor the wild populations of decapod crustaceans across the state to provide the OIE proof of freedom information
• monitor farmed populations of decapod crustaceans across the state to provide the OIE proof of freedom information.

Commencement and duration

The Surveillance program will commence on 21 January 2019 and will continue until 21 January 2021. The duration of the Surveillance program is considered to be necessary to achieve its purpose.

Access to biosecurity program

A copy of the authorisation document of the Surveillance program for white spot syndrome virus (PDF, 4.3MB) is available for inspection at all Department of Agriculture and Fisheries offices.

A free copy can be provided on request by contacting our Customer service centre on 13 25 23.