The National Management Group (NMG) met on 17 December 2025 and approved a revised Response Plan for red dwarf honey bee (Apis florea; RDHB) to achieve Proof of Freedom. In approving the revised Response Plan, the NMG has increased its total commitment to the eradication of RDHB in Australia to $13.5 million.
The revised Response Plan includes targeted surveillance on the Burrup Peninsula in the Pilbara region of Western Australia (WA), to confirm that RDHB is no longer present and to demonstrate the success of eradication efforts. This work will support achieving Proof of Freedom by 31 December 2026.
The Response Plan builds on the successful progress made by the WA Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, which continues to work closely with local businesses and industry to deliver response activities. More information on response activities is available at dpird.wa.gov.au.
Reporting suspicion of pests and disease is easy and vital in protecting Australia. If you suspect the presence of RDHB, contact the national Exotic Plant Pest Hotline on 1800 084 881. You can find out more about how we respond to plant pest and disease incidents at outbreak.gov.au.