Rat Plague Threatens Food Supply in Australia

The government of Australia has raised alarm over a growing rat infestation in the country’s west, warning it could disrupt both domestic and global food supplies.

Energy Minister Chris Bowen said authorities are closely monitoring the outbreak, particularly in Western Australia, where the situation has escalated.

Local media reports that rodents are spreading rapidly across the region’s wheatbelt, a key grain-producing area. Farmers have warned of mounting crop losses and are calling for approval to use stronger pesticides to control the infestation.

The government said it is working with the agricultural sector to limit the impact on food production and supply chains, describing the outbreak as a major challenge for farmers and policymakers alike.

According to the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization, Australia, one of the world’s leading wheat exporters, previously faced a severe rat plague in 1993 that destroyed vast areas of crops and affected livestock.

The current outbreak has revived fears of similar damage, as authorities move to contain the spread and protect critical agricultural output.