External and internal parasites continue to constitute the greatest combined threat to profitable wool production.

AWI continues to be at the forefront of research and development as well as the implementation of means to address the biggest animal health issues that face Australian woolgrowers.

Alternative breech modification techniques (e.g. skin clips, intradermal injections and selection and breeding) following the phase-out of Mulesing has been a major focus in the recent past and will continue to be so in the short - medium term.

Integrated parasite management strategies that were validated on 23 collaborating farms in various regions of Australia are now available for management guidance in combating parasites and will be promoted on a national scale.

Useful resources

• WormBoss continues to provide direction for the control of worms. Wormboss produces a monthly newsletter which provides the subscribers the best advice on reducing parasites and their resistance to drenches.
• LiceBoss is a decision support system which can help woolgrowers control lice more effectively, minimise pesticide residues and reduce the cost of lice control.
• FlyBoss provides the latest information to reduce the risk through management and breeding approaches and provides information on treatment of flystrike outbreaks.