From 1 July 2017, biosecurity reforms will be switched on in NSW as the Biosecurity Act 2015 commences. The new Act will replace 14 outdated Acts with a modern, cohesive framework for protecting the State from the threat of animal, plant, pests, diseases, weeds and contaminants.

NSW  Minister  for  Primary  Industries, Niall  Blair  encouraged everyone – from  recreational fishers  to  rural  landholders across  NSW – to  make  sure  they’reaware  of  their general biosecurity duties under the new legislation.

“The Act emphasises thatbiosecurity is a shared responsibility between the public, industry and government,” Mr Blair said.

“Across  NSW  the  community  has  an  important  role  to  play  in  managing  biosecurity, particularly as a source of information – they are our eyes and ears on the ground.”

The new framework is a smarter way of managing biosecurity risks through risk monitoring and flexible management tools, emergency response powers and community education.

Mr Blair also launched 11 Regional Strategic Weed Management Plans developed by Local Land Services and Local Control Authorities in conjunction with Regional Weed Committees.

“The  strength  of  these  plans  is  a  direct  result  of  the  community partnering  together  to achieve a coordinated approach to landscape-scale weed management in the 11 Local Land Services regions,” Mr Blair said.

“To  support  the  reform  and  regional  plans, DPI has  developed  the  WeedWise  app – an educative tool providing landholders with information on treating and managing weeds.

“We  have  the  legislation  in  place,  regional  plans  complete  and  an  easy  to  use  app  that brings every thing together for straightforward application on the ground.

“Today’s announcements are a landmark in this Government’s commitment to delivering a strong  framework  to  protect  NSW  from  risks  which  have  far-reaching  impacts  on  human, plant and animal health, as well as our environment and economy.

“This legislation ensures our state’s reputation for safe, disease-free food and fibre remains the best in the world, safeguarding our $14 billion primary industries sector.”

View the series of fact sheets about the NSW Biosecurity Act 2015

More information about the general biosecurity duty