Risks and responsibilities for landholders
For farmers and landholders, weeds pose a serious risk. They can:
- harm native plants and animals, water catchments and agriculture
- have a negative impact on the economy, human health and recreational activities
- compete with native plant species for nutrients, water, sunlight and space
- form dense areas of vegetation that shade and smother other native species.
There are certain actions a small landholder or hobby farmer must legally take to be biosecure (under the Biosecurity Act 2015 and supporting legislation) These include rules around:
- Priority weeds that MUST be reported - known as ‘State priority weeds’ and ‘prohibited matter’.
- Priority weeds that should be targeted and not be sold or moved in certain regions of NSW - known as ‘Regional priority weeds’
- Having the right accreditation, registrations, certificates and permits.
Any person who deals with plants and knows of biosecurity risk has a duty to ensure the risk is prevented, eliminated or minimised.
When it comes to controlling weeds, early detection and regular surveillance are key. Detecting weeds early means a better chance of controlling the infestation.
Essential guides to help you identify and tackle weeds in your region
To help you meet your biosecurity duty Local Land Services has set up 11 Regional Weed Committees made up of Local Control Authorities, public and private landholders, and community members. Each developed a five-year Regional Strategic Weed Management Plan based on local knowledge, research and technology and a strict assessment of the biosecurity risks posed by weeds. The plans explain how each region will work together to identify, minimise, respond to and manage high-risk weeds. Here are useful guides, including the regional plans.
NSW WeedWise
Learn to identify over 300 weeds, search by name and characteristics, and get the latest advice on control methods for prevention and eradication.
Regional Strategic Weed Management Plans
These list your region’s priority weeds under 4 categories: prevent, eradicate, contain and assets protection.
Weeds of national significance
Under the Australian Weeds Strategy, 32 introduced plants have been identified as Weeds of National Significance.
Also see Plant biosecurity
With information on Plant diseases and Insect pests
We're supporting your efforts in weed control
Local Land Services is primarily responsible for:
- delivering regional strategic weed management plans
- facilitating and coordinating regional strategic planning
- assisting with education and community outreach programs
- controlling weeds on land managed by LLS, including Travelling Stock Reserves.
Local control authorities, for example councils, are responsible for enforcing the Biosecurity Act as it relates to weeds, including conducting weed inspections on public and private land.
Recent news
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