Plague Locusts - Ground Spraying

Published on 15 September 2026

Prepare for Ground Spraying This Spring

Landholders are responsible for managing Australian plague locusts on their land.

Spray locusts about 2 weeks after hatching, when they are young, cannot fly and begin to band together.

Choose Appropriate Chemicals

The Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) provides databases of all registered products, permits and residue limits.

All chemicals you use must be registered with the APVMA. Always read the product label and check that the chemical is suitable for your situation.

Visit the following website link for registered chemical products for locusts in Victoria:

Locust Chemical Use - Agriculture Victoria website

Follow label instructions for:

• Withholding periods for crops and livestock;
• Crop protection instructions;
• Environmental protection;
• Spray drift controls.

Protect pollinators:

• Follow label instructions;
• Notify neighbours before spraying;
• Check for nearby hives;
• Avoid spraying when bees are active.

For information on the latest locust situation and appropriate chemical use, please visit the Agriculture Victoria – Locusts website. 

For further plague locust information, please view - News Page: Prepare for Locust Hatching in Spring