Prepare for Locust Hatching in Spring

Published on 05 August 2026

The Australian Plague Locust Commission has advised that locust numbers are likely to be high this spring, particularly in the Mallee and Wimmera.

Predicted hatching times are:

• mid-September in the Mallee,
• late September in the Wimmera.

Land managers play an important role in preventing locust numbers from increasing.

The best time to spray young locust (hopper) is two weeks after hatching, when they start banding together, and before they can fly.

Spraying hopper bands on time protects crops and pastures, reduces spread and limits adult swarms.  When left unmanaged, both hopper bands and adults swarms can strip crops, pastures and plants.  They can put farms, industries and local communities at risk.

It is also important to note that due to the increase in forecasted locust numbers, the Australian Plague Locust Commission is likely to undertake aerial spraying as an added control measure across New South Wales, South Australia and Victoria in Spring.

Further information is available via the Australian Plague Locust - Agriculture Victoria website.

What You Need To Do

Report Locust Activity

• Report sightings and activity via the Plague Locust Reporting Form, or call the Customer Contact Centre on #136 186.
• Early reporting helps support an effective response and reduces the risk of widespread impacts.

Plan Ahead

• Identify land under your control that is at risk.
• Prepare to undertake ground spraying.
• Ensure you and your staff are trained and available for surveillance and control activities.
• Consult Registered Aboriginal Parties where required - Aboriginal Heritage Council website.
• Consider environmental or biodiversity impacts, including bees, wildlife and waterways.

Manage Locusts

• Undertake ground spraying of hoppers where appropriate.
• Spraying is most effective when hoppers are approximately 8 to 12 mm long, around 2 weeks after hatching.

Chemical Use

• Understand chemical use for management of locusts.
• Select chemicals which are suitable and approved for your situation.
• Comply with legislative and regulatory requirements.
• Understand environmental sensitivities and safe chemical use.
• Ensure chemical use complies with State laws and regulations, including record-keeping requirements: Chemical Use - Agriculture Victoria website.

Stay Informed

• Monitor updates through the Agriculture Victoria website.
• For enquiries, email plague.locusts@agriculture.vic.gov.au