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Weeds Management
Weeds are one of the most serious threats to Australia's environment and primary production. Nationally pest plants continue to invade the land with exotic species accounting for about 15 per cent of flora. About one-quarter of them are either serious environmental weeds or have the potential to be serious weeds. Almost all of Australia's native vegetation has been, or could be, affected by weeds. Those affects could include changes to the structure, species composition, fire frequency and abundance of native ecosystems.
Weeds reduce farm and forest productivity, displace native species and contribute to land degradation. The cost of weeds to agricultural industries is estimated at about $4 billion a year. The cost of weeds to the environment is difficult to calculate but could be greater than the estimated cost to agricultural industries.
To combat weeds the Australian Government has developed a National Weeds Strategy. Under the strategy, 20 of Australia's most significant weed species have been listed as Weeds of National Significance. The Australian Government has committed $44.4 million for 4 years, from 2004/05 to 2007/08, to combat Australia’s most threatening weeds through the Defeating the Weed Menace Program. The program identifies Australia’s most threatening weeds and implements management measures including regional on-ground control and eradication, research into cost effective management techniques and bio-controls, and awareness campaigns.
The National Weed Advisory Group (NWAG) is responsible for advising the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry; and the Minister for the Environment and Heritage on weed issues. The NWAG provides direction and management for the Defeating the Weed Menace Program. The National Weed Advisory Group (NWAG) - Communiques outline the group’s discussions and major decisions.
Assistance for the control and management of Weeds of National Significance, 'sleeper weeds' and major environmental weeds continues under the national and regional investment plans of the Defeating the Weed Menace Program. The program includes weeds management under the Natural Heritage Trust. Quarantine risk assessment and rapid response to incursions in connection with invasive species also receive assistance.
For more information contact the Weeds Contact Officer
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