Banana Industry

Gee seconded the motion, emphasising the importance of protecting Australia's $90 billion agricultural sector from biosecurity threats. Gee highlighted the risk of diseases like banana freckle and Moko decimating the industry and jeopardising 15,000 jobs. Gee referenced recent biosecurity challenges in New South Wales, including the impact of varroa mites on beekeeping and pollination-dependent crops, as well as the spread of fire ants. Gee argued that vigilance was necessary to prevent similar outbreaks and commended the crossbench for leading on this policy issue.

Smith declined Gee's invitation to join the crossbench and clarified that the government was undertaking a rigorous, science-based assessment of the Philippine request, with no predetermined outcome. Smith stated that as a World Trade Organization member, Australia was obliged to consider formal import requests to maintain its standing as a reliable trading partner, noting that Australia exported 80 per cent of its agricultural produce. Smith outlined that experts would visit the Philippines and Australian farms to assess risks, with an issues paper expected in the first half of 2026. Smith assured that biosecurity was not up for negotiation and highlighted over $2 billion in additional biosecurity funding since 2022.