LOCUST CONTROL PACKAGE ANNOUNCED AHEAD OF SPRING

The South Australian Government is stepping up preparations for a potential plague locust outbreak, delivering a $6.5 million package to help farmers monitor and control the pest.

The investment includes $1.9 million for planning, procurement and surveillance, including up to six weeks of targeted monitoring in high-risk areas.

A further $4.6 million will fund a chemical rebate scheme, with eligible landholders able to claim up to $35 per hectare for chemicals used to control locusts.

Increased adult locust activity was reported in the Mallee, Riverland, Flinders Ranges and Eyre Peninsula during autumn, raising concerns eggs have been laid across multiple regions.

The risk comes as South Australia heads into a potentially record grain season, with more than 4.2 million hectares of crops established following above-average autumn and winter rainfall.

The rebate scheme will cover eligible expenses from September through December, with applications open until February 14.

Farmers are also being urged to report plague locust sightings to the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline on 1800 084 881.