Overview

This project aimed to evaluate the use of host microRNA (biomarker) response to detect Johne’s disease in cattle. It has provided a proof of concept for the potential use of this approach for other animal diseases.

Project Lead: Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness; Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry

Project Contact: animalhealthlaboratories@aff.gov.au 

Project Status: Complete

Overview

This project aims to develop a suite of tests on a portable, battery-operated multiplexing qPCR platform for the detection of major emergency diseases of cattle and pigs. It also serves as a proof-of-concept for the use of this multiplexing, point-of-care qPCR platform for other emergency animal pathogens.

Project Lead: Elizabeth Macarthur Agricultural Institute; Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry

Overview

This project aims to improve Australia’s LSD testing capability by strengthening the testing capability of the Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness (ACDP) and across the Laboratories for Emergency Animal Disease Diagnosis and Response (LEADDR) network.

This project will:

Overview

This project saw Mintrac partner with industry and government to deliver a suite of EAD preparedness training materials specific to abattoir personnel. This included sample standard operating procedures and an online eLearning course.

This training package was designed to help prepare abattoir staff to undertake specific management activities during an EAD response.

Project Lead: Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry

Project Contact: adpr@aff.gov.au 

Overview

This formal risk assessment was undertaken to inform and target prevention and preparedness activities for LSD. This ensures resources are allocated efficiently and risks are systematically addressed.

The department published the final report in November 2022. This work provided critical insights to further support national preparedness efforts.

Project Lead: Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry

Project Contact: adpr@aff.gov.au

Overview

This project aims to evaluate the suitability of 3 antibody detection enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) for lumpy skin disease (LSD) surveillance and proof-of-freedom testing, in cattle and buffalo in Australia.

The ELISAs will be made available for use by Australian laboratories through the Laboratories for Emergency Animal Disease Diagnosis and Response (LEADDR) network.

Project Lead: Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness; Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry

Overview

This project aims to improve northern Australia’s ability to identify and respond to future biosecurity challenges. It will also provide more effective biosecurity risk management through modernisation of disease detection resources and surveillance in the region.

Project Lead: Berrimah Veterinary Laboratory; Department of Agriculture Fisheries and Forestry.

Project Contact: animalhealthlaboratories@aff.gov.au 

Project Status: Active

The National Management Group (NMG) for the National Red Witchweed Eradication Program met on 06 June 2025 and approved a revised Response Plan for 2025-26. The revised Response Plan will build upon the substantial advances made through this response to date and will deliver final eradication activities as well as Proof of Freedom surveillance.

Date of issue: 17 June 2025

Date of effect: 19 June 2025

Reference Number: MAA2025-05