Grocery prices could be driven up as Aussie bees come under threat.

More than 12,000 honeybee hives have been destroyed since varroa mite was first detected in June.

A third of our food supply is dependent on the bee industry, estimated to be worth $14.2 billion.

Minister for Agriculture Dugald Saunders told Jim Wilson he is confident the threat can be managed.

“We are faring pretty well. The plan we have to combat varroa mite is standing up.

“It is costing a lot of money, but it’s definitely worth it.”

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Photo: Getty