OUT DAMNED WEEDS! WEED MANAGEMENT IN AUSTRALIA - KEEPING THEM AT BAY

ELISA ARCIONI

ABSTRACT:

Weeds have long been identified as a threat to agriculture and human health and, more recently, as a threat to the environment. In order to address these threats, a two-pronged approach is required, encompassing the prevention of weed introductions and the control of existing weed infestations. The regulatory and broader policy regime for both prevention and management of weeds is analysed, with a particular focus on the scope and implementation of weed management under the Noxious Weeds Act 1993 (NSW). Though the scope of legislation relating to the prevention and management of weeds is broad, its potential is not being fully realised due to current policy, the interplay with other regimes, international politics and practical issues such as insufficient funding.