Carp Biological Control Program Updates

The Carp Scientific Advisory Group (Carp SAG) convened online on 24 October 2025.

The Chair presented an update on the Carp Biological Control Program since the previous meeting in September 2024. This included:

• Progress on the procurement phase of the research program.
• Progress in establishing the Carp Virus Implementation Planning Advisory Group (IPAG) to support the planning and regulatory processes.
• An update on the Carp Biological Control Program’s engagement activities.

The Carp Scientific Advisory Group (Carp SAG) convened online on 23 September 2024. The contracted research scientist presented a draft report structured around the seven Priority Research Actions (PRAs), which are each linked to objectives and research questions. Discussion focused on:

• The integration of regulatory requirements (APVMA and the EPBC Act) into the research priorities.
• Key scientific uncertainties including virus efficacy, mortality rates and epidemiological assumptions.
• Additional testing of a limited number of non-target species (Murray Cod, Silver Perch, Rainbow Trout, and an estuarine species, Australian Bass).
• Cost-benefit analysis and complementary measures for long-term carp control.
• Budget constraints and prioritisation of research questions.

Next steps:

• Revising the report in response to feedback provided by Carp SAG members (with a minimum two-week review period).

The final report will be submitted to the Environment and Invasives Committee (EIC) Carp Task Group for endorsement. The report will also help inform an Approach to Market.

The Carp Scientific Advisory Group (Carp SAG) convened online on 7 August 2024.

CSIRO presented to the Carp SAG on:

• Updated ecological and epidemiological modelling from the National Carp Control Plan (NCCP).
• Carp population modelling, hydrological factors and CyHV 3 transmission.
• Recent scientific publications (post 2017) relevant to CyHV 3 and carp impacts.

The Carp SAG discussed:

• Uncertainties relating to carp virus dormancy, carp biomass estimates, resistance timelines, and carp environmental damage thresholds.
• International validation options for the epidemiological model and complementary control measures.

The Carp Scientific Advisory Group (Carp SAG) met in person on 3 July 2024.

Commonwealth regulatory agencies gave a presentation on the regulatory approval processes. This included information on:

• Regulatory expectations under the Biosecurity Act, the Agvet Code and the EPBC Act.
• The approval processes.
• The key data requirements.

The Carp SAG also heard updates from the contracted research scientist. The Carp SAG was advised that early work has progressed across all seven Priority Research Actions, including non-target species susceptibility, ecosystem risks, transmissibility mechanisms, efficacy under Australian temperature regimes, and integration of complementary carp control measures.

The Carp SAG discussed ensuring each Priority Research Action is scientifically robust and meets regulatory and decision-making requirements. Additional conversations focused on:

• The need for clear program objectives to support the regulatory assessments, including potential impacts on threatened species and Ramsar sites.
• Uncertainties in modelling assumptions, data gaps, and the importance of aligning research outputs with regulatory thresholds.
• The need for consistent communication to support community understanding and expectations.

The Carp Scientific Advisory Group (Carp SAG) convened online on 21 May 2024.

The Carp SAG discussed the following:

• Appointment of the Carp SAG Chair.
• Engagement of a contracted research scientist to support the development of the Priority Research Actions and the associated preliminary work.
• The recent DAFF webinar on the next phase of carp biological control.
• Updates to the Carp Biological Control Program’s webpages.
• Establishment of a separate working group to assist with early consideration of a proposal to conduct a controlled field trial using the carp virus.
• An outline of the regulatory approval pathway.
• The importance of clear, proactive public communication about long-term program goals.
• Initial refinement of research questions, including non-target species risks and ecosystem considerations.
• Agreement to schedule a dedicated meeting to explore the Priority Research Actions further.

The Carp Scientific Advisory Group (Carp SAG) convened online on 12 December 2023.

An update was provided on the next phase of the Carp Biological Control Program, which will focus on research, regulatory assessment and national coordination required to assess the feasibility of the carp virus as a biological control agent. The Carp SAG was also advised that funding has been allocated to support work over the coming years. Governance arrangements, Terms of Reference, and procurement processes for research activities are also being developed. Additionally, the Carp SAG noted that work is underway to refresh existing information materials and keep the National Carp Control Plan webpage up to date.

The Carp SAG also discussed:

• The need for regular meetings and the importance of maintaining independence and conflict of interest processes.
• Engaging an external provider to draft technical research briefs for the Priority Research Actions.
• The seven Priority Research Actions identified by the Environment and Invasives Committee (EIC) Carp Task Group. Areas noted for further research included non‑target species, virus behaviour, modelling, cost-benefit analysis and integrated management options.
• Recognition that any future field trials would likely be required to take place overseas due to domestic regulatory steps.
• The potential need to expand membership of the Carp SAG to include international expertise.

The Carp Virus Implementation Planning Advisory Group (IPAG) met virtually for the first time on 2 July 2026. At the meeting, IPAG members:

• endorsed the Terms of Reference
• discussed the current research and risk assessment activities underway
• discussed the need for engagement with jurisdictions, First Nations peoples, local communities and affected sectors
• noted the importance of clear communications on what to expect if a release was to go ahead
• noted that potential use of the virus should be considered in the context of broader carp management, native fish recovery and waterway health initiatives, and
• identified key preparedness considerations, including carcass management, water quality, environmental mitigation, public health, public information and delivery partner responsibilities.

Members also received a briefing on epidemiological modelling of the virus. This research is helping to improve understanding of how environmental conditions may affect the timing, effectiveness and potential risks of any future carp virus release in Australian waterways.

The next IPAG meeting is scheduled for 11 August 2026 and will include updates on research, environmental assessment and regulatory activities.