Document ID: chunk:federal_register_of_legislation:F2016L01397:body:0:p4
Version: federal_register_of_legislation:F2016L01397
Segment Type: other
Provision Reference: 
Character Range: 8497–11571

of the distribution of chytridiomycosis is available; historical surveys have been completed; reliable diagnostic laboratory test protocols have been established; the biology of the pathogen has been investigated and is now much better understood; and many amphibian conservation managers in the state organisations are collaborating on captive breeding programs for threatened amphibians. The Australian Government also funded other projects targeted specifically to implement key TAP actions, such as: the development of hygiene protocols; guidelines for captive husbandry; a rapid in-field diagnostic test; a national disease strategy; and the formation of the National Chytrid Working Group (see Action 4.3).
However, the two main goals of the TAP were only partially achieved.  Firstly, the further spread of amphibian chytrid fungus within Australia has slowed to some extent but surveys revealed that the disease had already reached almost all climatically suitable areas in Australia by 2006. Secondly, the impact of infection with amphibian chytrid fungus on populations that are currently infected has only been somewhat decreased.
As a result of the review, in December 2012, the Minister decided that:
      1. the TAP should be revised to provide a more realistic and targeted plan which identifies and prioritises key actions and provides national leadership on multi-jurisdictional issues that cross-cut several species; and

      2. a threat abatement advice should be prepared to provide direction on specific actions and research that are required to abate the threat to biodiversity from chytrid fungus.

This threat abatement plan
This document replaces the 2006 threat abatement plan. It incorporates the knowledge gained in the intervening years and has been modified in line with recommendations from the review. This plan was developed in consultation with key stakeholders and the members of the National Chytrid Working Group.
The threat abatement plan aims to guide the responsible use of public resources to achieve the best outcome for native amphibian species, ecological communities and other matters of national environmental significance (such as World Heritage Areas) threatened by chytrid fungus. The plan seeks to achieve these outcomes by recognising the opportunities and limitations that exist, and ensuring that field experience and research are used to further improve management of threatened amphibian species. The activities and priorities under the threat abatement plan will need to adapt to changes as they occur.
The TAP is expected to maintain the profile of the issue of amphibian chytrid fungus, provide direction for priority setting of national funding programs and guidance for state, territory and local governments to prioritise and support threat abatement actions in their management programs. It also contains information on priorities for research to enable universities and other research facilities to target research projects towards addressing gaps in knowledge.

Although the Minister had initially agreed to