Public Consultation Opens on Draft Threat Abatement Plan for Chytrid Fungus

The Australian Government has opened public consultation on the draft threat abatement plan for the infection of amphibians with chytrid fungus resulting in chytridiomycosis 2026, with submissions being accepted until 5:00 pm AEDT on Monday, January 18, 2027.

Chytridiomycosis is a disease affecting frogs that has spread throughout Australia since the 1970s. According to the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, the disease has contributed to the confirmed or suspected extinction of six Australian frog species and the decline of at least 37 others. Due to these impacts, it is formally listed as a key threatening process under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999.

Threat abatement plans are designed to guide nationwide efforts to reduce risks to native wildlife and ecosystems. The current draft plan establishes measures intended to mitigate the disease's effects, help frog populations recover, and foster collaboration among governments, land managers, researchers, and local communities.

Key actions outlined in the proposal include improving monitoring, managing the disease, supporting research, strengthening biosecurity protocols, and enhancing communication and coordination across relevant groups.

Feedback is being sought from the public on both the draft abatement plan and its accompanying background document before the consultation period concludes.

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