Due to the current situation of Varroa mite (Varroa destructor) in NSW, the Tasmanian Chief Veterinary Officer has put in place an extension to General Biosecurity Direction (Emergency) to further prevent the introduction of this honeybee parasite into Tasmania.
This Direction is in effect as of 5 pm on Thursday 6 July 2023 and remains in effect for 6 months, unless it is revoked earlier. The Direction prohibits the import into Tasmania of any:
European honey bee (Apis mellifera); or
any animal product produced by, or from, a European honey bee other than commercially produced bee products such as honey filtered to a maximum 2 mm pore size and melted refined beeswax, or another process approved by the Chief Plant Protection Officer; or
any used beekeeping equipment; or
any other thing that may reasonably be suspected of being a carrier of bees, or any pest or disease that may affect bees.
Biosecurity Tasmania is currently undertaking a risk analysis to ensure that industry needs are met whilst still protecting the apiary industry. Producers should consider local alternatives in sourcing queens for the coming season.
Extension of General Biosecurity Direction
General Biosecurity Direction (Emergency) Honey Bees (PDF 68Kb)
See also: