National award highlights the value of investing in Australia’s plant biosecurity capability
The Plant Biosecurity Research Initiative (PBRI) has been recognised with the 2026 Australian Biosecurity Award for Education, marking a significant milestone in a long-term effort to strengthen Australia’s plant biosecurity capability through education, training and industry collaboration.
For years, PBRI has brought together Australia’s plant Research and Development Corporations, government, universities and research organisations to tackle a shared challenge: ensuring Australia has the skills, expertise and partnerships needed to prepare for future pest and disease threats.
Through initiatives including the Ritman Scholarship Program, Plant Health Student Network, professional development workshops and the biennial Plant Biosecurity Research Symposium, PBRI has helped create pathways into plant biosecurity careers, build research capability and strengthen connections between science and industry.
The award recognises the success of this long-term, collaborative approach and the important role capability building plays in strengthening Australia’s national biosecurity system.
The recognition also marks a new chapter for PBRI, with Dr Will Cuddy recently appointed Program Director to lead the initiative’s continued focus on education, workforce development and industry collaboration.
Bringing more than a decade of experience in biosecurity science and research leadership, Dr Cuddy joins PBRI from the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, where he led national biosecurity research and development programs focused on capability, surveillance and diagnostics. Throughout his career, he has worked closely with industry, government and research partners to strengthen Australia’s biosecurity preparedness through collaborative investment and innovation.
Will Cuddy, Program Director of PBRI, said the recognition was an opportunity to reflect on the progress made through years of collaboration, including the contribution of outgoing Program Director Jo Luck, while remaining focused on the work ahead.
“This award is a testament to the commitment of the many organisations and individuals who have invested in building Australia’s plant biosecurity capability over time.”
“As Program Director, I’m looking forward to building on that strong foundation and continuing to connect industry, government and researchers around shared biosecurity challenges.”
Dr Cuddy said PBRI’s collaborative model demonstrated the value of bringing industries together to tackle challenges that no single sector could address alone.
“Biosecurity threats don’t recognise industry boundaries, which is why collaboration is so important. By aligning research, education and industry priorities, PBRI helps ensure investment is directed towards the challenges that matter most and delivers practical outcomes for Australia’s plant industries.”
“Looking ahead, we’re focused on continuing to build the capability, connections and research partnerships that will help deliver practical solutions for industry and strengthen Australia’s preparedness for future biosecurity challenges.”
By connecting education, research and industry needs, PBRI is helping ensure Australian plant industries continue to benefit from the expertise, innovation and partnerships needed to respond to future biosecurity challenges.
