Reflections on the 2026 PBRI Symposium
The 2026 Plant Biosecurity Research Initiative (PBRI) Symposium brought together the people and ideas that are shaping the future of plant biosecurity in Australia and across the region. Held at the State Library Victoria on 12 and 13 May, the symposium coincided with the United Nations International Day of Plant Health and carried a timely theme: Biosecurity for food and fibre security.
Over two days, the program showcased the breadth and depth of plant biosecurity research, development and extension across industry, government, universities and research organisations. It also reinforced the message that biosecurity is ultimately about people, the growers, communities and industries affected by pests and diseases, and the networks of people working together to prevent, detect, respond and recover.
The symposium highlighted PBRI’s role as a national platform for collaboration and co-investment. Sessions explored early warning and risk, diagnostics and surveillance, resilient crop protection systems, Trans-Tasman biosecurity research, readiness and recovery, and capability building. Across these topics, a strong thread emerged: effective biosecurity depends on trusted partnerships, shared priorities, practical tools and the ability to translate science into action.
The symposium also demonstrated the value of bringing industry voices into research conversations. Grower videos helped ground the discussions in real-world production systems and the practical decisions that growers face every day. These perspectives are vital if biosecurity research is to remain relevant, adoptable and connected to industry needs.
The survey results were overwhelmingly positive, with attendees praising the symposium’s strong organisation, excellent timekeeping, engaging format and diverse mix of research and industry-focused presentations. Keynote speakers, the conference dinner, networking opportunities and the broad representation of academia, government, industry and early-career researchers were particularly valued. Respondents also highlighted the positive atmosphere, quality venue, effective MC and excellent catering as major strengths.
