Agriculture Victoria is encouraging beekeepers to continue to report varroa mite despite the state transitioning to management of the pest.

Throughout August, large numbers of beehives were moved into almond orchards for pollination. As anticipated, new detections of varroa have and will continue to occur across Victoria.

The focus is now on preparing beekeepers to live with the pest while slowing its spread. Agriculture Victoria’s varroa development officers are working in the field with beekeepers to ensure any positive loads within the state are well managed to minimise the biosecurity risk.

Under the National Varroa Mite Response Plan, varroa development officers are providing guidance directly to beekeepers on how to manage varroa mite and appropriately utilise the chemical control options available.

Victorian chief plant health officer Rosa Crnov stressed the importance of following all relevant processes.

“On September 11, Agriculture Victoria removed statewide border control measures on hives that were previously in place to manage the spread of varroa destructor into Victoria,” Dr Crnov said.

“The change reflects the continued spread of varroa across Victoria, NSW, Queensland and South Australia and aligns with the national strategy to slow the spread of varroa and transition to management.

Beekeepers seeking to introduce bees, bee products or used beekeeping fittings into Victoria from any jurisdiction are still required to obtain a health certificate which has been modified to include varroa related conditions.

After extensive industry consultation and with the expected continued spread of varroa, Agriculture Victoria determined in September 2025 that more stringent movement restrictions could no longer be justified.

All beekeepers in Victoria are urged to check their hives and record their inspections, mite testing results and hive movements in BeeMAX.

By reporting varroa detections in BeeMAX all beekeepers will be able to see the latest detections of varroa in Victoria.

For more information on varroa mite, visit the varroa mite current situation section of the Agriculture Victoria website.

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Tuesday, 18th January 2028

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