Agriculture Victoria has advised of a recent detection of the tomato potato psyllid (TPP; Bactericera cockerelli) on tomato plants in Victoria. TPP can impact Solanaceous crops such as tomatoes, potatoes, capsicums, and eggplants.

TPP has been present in Western Australia since 2017. It was agreed that TPP was not eradicable from Western Australia and a transition to management phase was endorsed by impacted industries and government, with the aim of mitigating spread and supporting market access and trade.

What we know:

• Victorian detection: TPP was first confirmed in Victoria in November 2024 on tomato plants.   
• Australia remains CLso free: Testing of the insects and plant material has shown no evidence of Candidatus Liberibacter solanacearum (CLso), which causes Zebra chip in potatoes. Therefore, Australia remains free of CLso
• Government response: The Victorian government is working to manage the situation and prevent the spread of TPP. This includes surveillance, tracing, and control measures.  
• Grower vigilance: Growers are urged to be vigilant and report any suspected cases of TPP.  

Following the detection, it’s crucial to remember the Eastern Bloc agreement, a collaborative effort between AUSVEG, on behalf of the potato industry and the Plant Health Committee (PHC). This agreement outlines guidelines for the movement of processing and ware potatoes in the event of a TPP detection in the eastern states.

In 2020, The Plant Health Committee (PHC) confirmed its commitment to:

• Uninterrupted trade: Movement of potato tubers between QLD, NSW, VIC, and SA will continue despite TPP detection.
• Business continuity: Minimizing TPP spread while ensuring ongoing trade.
• National monitoring: Collaborative TPP monitoring program across Australia.

This agreement enables continued potato trade and production in the presence of TPP, safeguarding the industry’s economic stability.

Stay informed about the latest updates, and access resources and information using the links below.

Links to resources and information about TPP:

• Agriculture Victoria
• DPIRD TPP fact sheet
• Plant Health Committee Communique

Reporting Suspect TPP

TPP is currently an exotic pest under the Plant Biosecurity Act 2010, and growers are urged to be vigilant. 

If you suspect TPP may be present on your property, you must notify Agriculture Victoria by either:

•  Email via: plant.protection@agriculture.vic.gov.au
•  Lodge a report online via: www.agriculture.vic.gov.au/reportpestsonline

Further information if you make a report to Agriculture Victoria:

• Photos are important for staff to help reporters
• Helpful photo guide www.agriculture.vic.gov.au/takeaphoto
• Agriculture Victoria may contact reporters further to discuss the situation or arrange sample pick up and testing