April 1, 2025
Supplied by the South Australian Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA)
Check, Clean, Dry – Protect Abalone and Marine Environments
An outbreak of abalone viral ganglioneuritis (AVG) has been confirmed in the south-east of South Australia, with the virus now detected throughout the Southern Zone Abalone Fishery. In response, the South Australian Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA) has:
- implemented restrictions on taking abalone between the Murray Mouth to the Victorian border
- urging water users– including visitors from interstate – to Check, Clean and Dry all marine equipment to stop the spread.
What is AVG?
AVG is a virus specific to abalone that affects their nervous system, causing weakness and eventually death.
The virus was detected in wild abalone at Port MacDonnell South Australia, in February 2024. Since then, the virus has spread throughout the Southern Zone of Abalone Fishery.
Preliminary results from recent surveys indicate losses of up to 96% of abalone stock in some areas.
What restrictions are in place?
As of now, all abalone fishing (commercial and recreational) is banned in South Australian waters from the Murray Mouth to the Victorian border. These measures are critical to give the severely depleted stocks a chance to recover.
What can Victorian fishers and water users do?
If you’re heading across the border to fish, dive or surf – or even just passing through affected areas – you play a key role in helping to protect abalone populations both in SA and here in Victoria.
PIRSA and biosecurity authorities are urging all water users to adopt the Check, Clean, Dry approach:
- Check all vessels and fishing, diving and surfing equipment. Remove any water, sand or seaweed.
- Clean boats at home or at a commercial car wash. Wash wetsuits, fishing and diving equipment with detergent and fresh water. Anything that has touched the seabed, such as anchors, must be decontaminated.
- Dry all boating, fishing and diving equipment completely, preferably in the sun, before heading out into the water again.
Biosecurity responsibilities
If you’ve been in South Australia’s Southern Zone, it’s essential to follow any official instructions before moving into other waters. Even if you’re in a part of Victoria that seems unaffected, taking these precautions can help stop the virus from spreading.
To stay up to date or learn more about AVG and the affected areas, visit the PIRSA website.
Let’s work together to protect our fisheries – for now and for the future.
