Better pests and weeds control the focus of the new Biosecurity Commissioner Bill

19 Oct 2023

The NSW Government is today delivering on a key election commitment with the introduction of a landmark bill into Parliament that will amend the Biosecurity Act 2015 to establish NSW’s first independent Biosecurity Commissioner.

The Biosecurity Amendment (Independent Biosecurity Commissioner) Bill 2023 has been developed following extensive consultation and will strengthen the impact and accountability of our biosecurity programs for pests and weeds.

Invasive species’ impact on NSW’s economy is profound - weeds cost our agriculture sector around $1.8 billion every year; and pest animals cost more than $170 million annually.

This Bill also responds to matters raised by farmers and landholders who have reported issues with pests and weeds coming onto their property from public lands.

The Commissioner, supported by the NSW Department of Primary Industries, will oversee the management of pests and weeds in NSW by engaging with stakeholders and then providing independent and impartial advice to the NSW Government on the effectiveness of programs.

To further drive accountability, the Commissioner will report annually to Parliament on their work and the opportunities for improvement in controlling invasive species.

Minister for Agriculture Tara Moriarty said:

“We know that our farmers work hard to fight invasive pests and weeds on their land, so we need to make sure other landowners are doing the same - and that includes Government.

“The Minns Government has acted quickly to deliver on our election commitment to establish an independent Biosecurity Commissioner because we know how devastating the impacts of weeds and pests can be on our farmers, landowners and regional economy.

“Weeds cost our agriculture sector around $1.8 billion every year in lost productivity and control costs, while pest animals cost our sector $170 million annually. Escalating this problem to a Commissioner level is critical for improving the NSW response.

“Introducing this bill is a milestone achievement and demonstrates our commitment to supporting NSW’s producers who continually bear the brunt of biosecurity risks.

“I’d like to acknowledge the work of the Dr Marion Healy who conducted extensive stakeholder consultation following her appointment to the interim Independent Biosecurity Commissioner role in June 2023, which ultimately informed the development of this bill.”

MEDIA: Alastair Walton | Moriarty | 0418 251 229