Australia’s pollination system could face a potential shortfall of 290,000 commercial honey bee hives during peak pollination periods under the most likely future scenarios, according to a new national report.

The Pollination Security Status Report 2026 identifies growing pressure on Australia’s pollination system, with new modelling showing how varroa mite and rising demand for pollination services could widen gaps between hive supply and crop requirements in key agricultural regions.

Wheen Bee Foundation Chair Peter Knoblanche said the report provides an integrated national holistic assessment of pollination in Australia.

“This is the first time Australia has looked at pollination as a whole system, not just for agriculture, but also for biodiversity, ecosystems and socio-cultural values,” Mr Knoblanche said.

“Pollination is often invisible because when it works, everything functions as expected. Yet it is essential to Australia’s food production, natural environment and the economy.”

He said the findings highlight the need for coordinated long-term planning.

“The new modelling in this report is a major step forward. For the first time, we can begin to understand the scale of future pressure on Australia’s pollination system as varroa mite impacts both feral and managed honey bee populations.”

The modelling compares demand for pollination services from key horticultural industries with the estimated availability of managed honey bee hives during peak flowering periods.

One scenario modelled in the report, based on the US experience, suggests Australia could face a shortfall of 290,000 commercial honey bee hives during peak pollination periods across eastern Australia if feral populations decline and managed hive numbers fall significantly.

“The scenarios in this report highlight why Australia needs coordinated planning, investment and action to strengthen pollination security and prepare for future risks.”

Mr Knoblanche said the report marks an important step toward a coordinated national approach.

“What excites us most is that Australia finally has a baseline. It’s an evidence base to move into the consultation phase of the Australian Pollination Strategy with far greater clarity and focus.

“The consultation phase will be critical in testing assumptions, gathering additional evidence and ensuring the final strategy reflects practical experience from across Australia.”

The consultation invites all people involved in pollination to contribute to the development of the Australian Pollination Strategy.

“The Wheen Bee Foundation is incredibly proud to present this report with the support of The Ian Potter Foundation and our many industry and research partners.

“Pollination security is bigger than any one sector, and this report reflects the power of collaboration in tackling national challenges,” Mr Knoblanche said.

Read the Pollination Security Status Report 2026 at pollination.org.au

Submit feedback for the Australian Pollination Strategy at pollination.org.au

About the Australian Pollination Strategy

The Australian Pollination Strategy is a five-year national initiative led by the Wheen Bee Foundation in collaboration with industry, research institutions, environmental organisations and government stakeholders. The project aims to strengthen pollination security through improved coordination, evidence-based planning and long-term strategic action across both agricultural and natural systems.

Support for the Australian Pollination Strategy

The Australian Pollination Strategy project is being funded by The Ian Potter Foundation, along with support from Hort Innovation, Australian Farming Services, Stahmann Webster and Fresh Country Farms.

The project has also received support from Bush Heritage Australia, Plant Health Australia, Australian National University, Australian Honey Bee Industry Council, University of Sydney, Monash University, CSIRO, AgLive, Australian Seed Federation, Berries Australia, Northern Territory Government, Beechworth Honey, Australian Native Bee Association, Balliang Consulting and Hive IQ.