We have released a draft risk analysis report for the release of the leaf spot pathogen Neoramulariopsis unguis-cati for the biological control of cat’s claw creeper (Dolichandra unguis-cati).
We will conduct the risk analysis in two key steps:
- Release the draft report of the risk analysis for the release of Neoramulariopsis unguis-cati for the biological control of Dolichandra unguis-cati on 31 July 2025, via Biosecurity Advice 2025/P04 for a 30 day consultation period, closing on 29 August 2025.
- Release the final report of the risk analysis in late 2025, following consideration of stakeholder submissions.
Draft report
The draft risk analysis report proposes that the release of the leaf spot pathogen Neoramulariopsis unguis-cati for the biological control of cat’s claw creeper (Dolichandra unguis-cati) should be permitted, subject to meeting the standard quarantine requirements for biological control agents.
It has been proposed that the risk estimate for the leaf spot pathogen targeting plants other than cat’s claw creeper (Dolichandra unguis-cati) is Negligible. This risk estimate achieves Australia’s appropriate level of protection (ALOP). Details of the assessment that determined this risk estimate are contained in the draft risk analysis.
Make a submission
You are invited to read the draft risk analysis report and submit your feedback through Have Your Say.
The application that was submitted by the Queensland Department of Primary Industries (QDPI) has been included with the draft report for reference.
This consultation closes at 5 pm (AEST) on Friday 29 August 2025.
Draft risk analysis report
This draft risk analysis assesses the application made by QDPI to release the leaf spot pathogen Neoramulariopsis unguis-cati to control cat’s claw creeper (Dolichandra unguis-cati) in Australia.
Application from Queensland Department of Primary Industries
Note: the application report may not meet Australian Government accessibility guidelines as it has not been prepared by the department.
If you have difficulty accessing these files, contact us for help.
We will consider your comments when preparing the final report.
Next steps
Your feedback during the consultation period will help inform our final report for Neoramulariopsis unguis-cati for the biological control of Dolichandra unguis-cati. We expect to release the final report later this year. Please note that this is an indicative timeline and may be subject to change.
Keep informed
Register as a stakeholder
Subscribe to Biosecurity Risk Analysis Plant via our online subscription service to receive Biosecurity Advices and other notifications relating to plant biosecurity policy.
Contact us
For more information, email imports or phone 1800 900 090 (option 1, option 1).