This paper documents the continuing evolution of the Ovine Johnes Disease control and management program in the state of Victoria, Australia. It follows on from previous papers delivered at the sixth and seventh colloquiums in 1998 and 2001 respectively.Progress since 2002 has demonstrated that it is possible to build industry ownership and engagement in an effective disease control program. The Victorian program has moved since its inception in 1996 from a largely government sponsored effort at eradication heavily reliant on bureaucratic administrative processes to an industry sponsored management program supported by government. This paper outlines the progress made since 2002 and identifies the factors that contributed to a program that now enjoys a greater degree of confidence and support from the sheep industry. The key factors contributing to the success of the ovine Johne's disease (OJD) management program in Victoria from 2002 to 2005 were the appointment of an independent and broadly based representative industry ministerial advisory committee that enjoyed excellent credibility with sheep farmers in the management and control program. Furthermore, the industry advisory committee developed a financial assistance package to assist farmers whose properties were under trading restrictions for OJD. Underpinning the committee's work was an extensive and ongoing communication process, a collaborative working relationship with the Department of Primary Industries animal health staff, and the creation of a social support mechanism for affected producers.