Varroa mites are an exotic parasite of adult European honeybees that weaken and kill honeybee colonies and can also transmit honeybee viruses.
Victoria’s deputy chief plant health officer Stephen Dibley said the measures were necessary to ensure Varroa mite is kept out of Victoria and bee-keepers are protected.
“Varroa mite is a threat not only to Australia’s bee population but to any horticultural industries which rely on pollination,” Dr Dibley said.
“The restrictions mean that no bees, hives or bee-keeping equipment can be transported into Victoria from NSW without a permit and no permits will be granted while the NSW standstill is in place — to comply with NSW emergency orders.”
Dr Dibley said that as of yet, there had been no detections of Varroa mite in Victoria but he urged bee-keepers to remain vigilant when inspecting their hives.
“Bee-keepers should inspect their hives regularly for signs of Varroa mite by using the appropriate methods including sugar shake and drone uncapping,” he said.
The mite occurs in bee-keeping countries throughout the world but has not yet been established in Australia, but is considered the greatest threat to Australia's honey and honeybee pollination industries.
Any suspect detections can be reported immediately to the national Exotic Plant Pest Hotline on 1800 084 881.