In our previous post, we gave an overview of the biodiversity and native vegetation legislation in each State and Territory. A significant part of managing biodiversity is the control of pest plants (weeds), which is a crucial aspect of environmental management in Australia. This article provides a comprehensive analysis of the legislation related to the control of noxious weeds in each state and territory, highlighting the key statutes and their coverage.
Victoria (VIC)
In Victoria, the Catchment and Land Protection Act 1994 addresses the control of noxious weeds. This act outlines the obligations of landholders in managing and controlling noxious weeds on their properties. It establishes mechanisms for the declaration, control programs, and enforcement measures for noxious weeds.
New South Wales (NSW)
In New South Wales, the Noxious Weeds Act 1993 is the primary legislation governing the control of noxious weeds. This act outlines the obligations and responsibilities of landholders in managing and controlling declared noxious weeds on their properties. It also establishes mechanisms for weed identification, control programs, and enforcement measures.
Queensland (QLD)
In Queensland, the Land Protection (Pest and Stock Route Management) Act 2002 addresses the control of noxious weeds. This act designates certain plants as declared pests and provides guidelines for their control. It also focuses on coordinating efforts between landholders, local governments, and the state in managing noxious weeds.
South Australia (SA)
The Natural Resources Management Act 2004 in South Australia encompasses provisions for the control of noxious weeds. This act establishes mechanisms for the declaration, control, and management of declared plant species. It empowers Natural Resources Management boards and officers to enforce weed control measures.
Western Australia (WA)
In Western Australia, the Biosecurity and Agriculture Management Act 2007 includes provisions for the control of declared pests, including noxious weeds. This act outlines the responsibilities of landholders and provides mechanisms for the prevention, management, and control of noxious weeds. It also establishes a framework for declaring and managing biosecurity zones.
Tasmania (TAS)
The Weed Management Act 1999 is the primary legislation in Tasmania for the control of noxious weeds. This act establishes the legal framework for declaring and controlling noxious weeds, as well as the obligations of landholders in managing them. It also empowers local councils to enforce weed control measures.
Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
In the Australian Capital Territory, the Pest Plants and Animals Act 2005 encompasses provisions for the control of noxious weeds. This act designates certain plant species as pests and establishes mechanisms for their identification, control, and management. It outlines the responsibilities of landholders and empowers the Commissioner for Sustainability and the Environment to enforce weed control measures.
Northern Territory (NT)
In the Northern Territory, the Weeds Management Act 2001 focuses on the control of noxious weeds. This act designates certain plants as declared weeds and provides guidelines for their management and control. It outlines the responsibilities of landholders, empowers weed management officers, and establishes mechanisms for weed control programs.
At the federal level, there are Weeds of National Significance (WoNS). However, this list, although useful for its nationwide approach, is not linked to any specific legislation.
Controlling noxious weeds is essential for preserving Australia's ecosystems and agricultural productivity. Each state and territory has implemented specific legislation to address the management and control of noxious weeds, reflecting their unique environmental challenges and priorities. By staying informed about these laws, landholders, environmental organizations, and policymakers can collaborate effectively to combat the spread of noxious weeds and protect Australia's natural landscapes and productive lands for generations to come.