Download NSW Invasive Species Plan 2008-2015

New South waleS
inVasiVe species plan
2008–2015
NSW Invasive Species Plan
Acknowledgements
NSW Department of Primary Industries,
Orange NSW 2800
This Plan was developed by the NSW Invasive
Species Plan Steering Committee comprising:
Richard Carter, Scott Charlton, Cathy Crawford,
Jane Frances, Kathy Gott, Barry Kay, Annette McCaffery,
Barbara Sanders, Robert Williamson, NSW Department
of Primary Industries; Rei Beumer, Andrew Leys,
Department of Environment and Climate Change;
Richard Chewings, NSW Department of Lands;
John Carse, Sydney Metropolitan Catchment
Management Authority; Andrew Glover, Moss Vale Rural
Lands Protection Board; and Reg Kidd, Chairman of
Noxious Weeds Advisory Committee.
© State of New South Wales through
NSW Department of Primary Industries 2008
This publication is copyright. You may download,
display, print and reproduce this material in an
unaltered form only (retaining this notice) for your
personal use or for non-commercial use within your
organisation. To copy, adapt, publish, distribute or
commercialise any of this publication you will need to
seek permission from the Manager Publishing, NSW
Department of Primary Industries, Orange, NSW.
For updates to this publication,
check http://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/
Published by NSW Department of Primary Industries
First Published August 2008
ISBN 978 0 7347 1896 9
The Plan’s framework and much of its detail were
provided by a State workshop held in Sydney in August
2006, facilitated by Lloyd Kingham of NSW Department
of Primary Industries. The outcomes from this workshop
were collated by Annette McCaffery and Cathy Crawford
NSW Department of Primary Industries, who then wrote
a draft Plan for consultation.
Approximately eighty individuals and organisations
provided valued comment on the draft Plan, which
helped the steering committee refine the final
document.
Disclaimer
The information contained in this publication is based
on knowledge and understanding at the time of writing
(January 2008). However, because of advances in
knowledge, users are reminded of the need to ensure
that information on which they rely is up to date and
to check the currency of the information with the
appropriate officer of New South Wales Department of
Primary Industries or the user’s independent advisor.
Job No: 6902
NEW SOUTH WALES
INVASIVE SPECIES PLAN
2008–2015
New South Wales Invasive Species Plan 2008–2015
Foreword
The NSW Government is pleased to present the NSW Invasive Species Plan, an eight year
plan to improve the management of invasive species in NSW.
Invasive species pose one of the greatest threats to biodiversity and primary production in
NSW.
By developing and implementing this Plan the NSW Government aims to prevent and
effectively manage the introduction and spread of invasive species so that this significant
threat is minimised.
The Plan proposes actions to prevent contain and manage invasive species, including
weeds, vertebrate and invertebrate animal pests, freshwater and marine aquatic pests.
The NSW Invasive Species Plan will be of benefit to the people of NSW by providing
a whole of government approach to managing invasive species in this State. Its
implementation will reduce the impact of weeds and other pests resulting in more profitable
agricultural production and lower costs of control for land managers.
The Plan will also assist in protecting the real threat invasive species has on the State’s
biodiversity.
This plan is the product of extensive consultation with relevant stakeholders and its
success will be reliant on a collaborative approach by government organisations, industry
and the wider community.
The NSW Invasive Species Plan delivers on the NSW State Plan’s commitment to target
resources to manage priority weeds and pests in key locations in NSW to achieve the NSW
Government’s target reducing the impact of invasive species in NSW by 2015.
THE HON. IAN MACDONALD MLC
THE HON. VERITY FIRTH MLC
Minister for Primary Industries
Minister for Climate Change
and the Environment
Minister for Energy
Minister for Mineral Resources
Minister for State Development
Minister for Women
Minister for Science and
Medical Research
Minister Assisting the Minister
for Health (Cancer)
TA B LE O F CONTENTS
1 E X EC U TI V E S U MM A R Y
3 t h e p l a n ’s V i s i o n
3 who has a role in implementing the plan?
3 introduction
5 b ox 1 – i m pac t s
5 b ox 2 – c l i m at e c h a n g e a n d i n va s i v e s p e c i e s
7 P r i n c i p l e s o f t h e I n va s i v e Sp e c i e s P l a n
10 I m p l e m e n tat i o n o f NSW I n va s i v e Sp e c i e s P l a n
11 C h a l l e n g e s , G o a l s a n d Ac t i o n s
12 g o a l 1 – e xc lu d e
13 Ca s e S t u dy 1 –
ER A DIC ATION O F TR A M P A NTS – Y ELLOW CR A Z Y A NTS F ROM NS W
14 g o a l 2 – e r a d i c at e o r co n ta i n
15 Ca s e S t u dy 2 – Pa r t h e n i u m W e e d
16 g o a l 3 – e ff e c t i v e ly m a n ag e
17 Ca s e S t u dy 3 – F OX CONTROL TO P ROTECT LITTLE TERNS
18 Ca s e S t u dy 4 –
E r a d i c at i o n o f o n e - s p ot l i v e b e a r e r s f r o m Lo n g R e e f G o l f Co u r s e
19 g o a l 4 – c apac i t y
22 Ca s e S t u dy 5 – W r e s t l i n g A l l i g ato r W e e d i n t h e R i v e r i n a
23 NSW Nat u r a l R e s o u r c e s M o n i to r i n g , Eva luat i o n a n d R e p o r t i n g
S t r at e g y
24 M i l e s to n e s
25 A pp e n d i x 1 –
S ta k e h o l d e r o r g a n i s at i o n s a n d i n d i v i d ua l s t h at pa r t i c i pat e d
i n w o r k s h o p s o r co n t r i bu t e d to t h e d e v e lo p m e n t o f t h e NSW
I n va s i v e Sp e c i e s P l a n .
26 A pp e n d i x 2 – A bb r e v i at i o n s
26 A pp e n d i x 3 – G lo s s a r y o f t e r m s
28 A pp e n d i x 4 – L e g i s l at i o n r e l e va n t to t h e NSW I n va s i v e Sp e c i e s P l a n
New South Wales Invasive Species Plan 2008–2015
E X EC U TI V E S U MM A R Y
Developed through extensive consultation with a wide range of stakeholders, the NSW
Invasive Species Plan addresses one of the greatest threats to biodiversity and primary
production in NSW - the introduction and spread of invasive species.
Invasive species typically compete with desirable species for limited resources and in some
cases, prey on other species for food. Common invasive animal species in NSW include wild
dogs, feral pigs, rabbits, foxes, feral goats, carp and feral cats. However, small invertebrate
species such as tramp ants and exotic bees can be equally devastating to the economy and
environment.
Invasive plant species embody a more diverse and significant threat with over 1,350 exotic
plant species naturalised in NSW with more than 300 having detrimental impacts on the
biodiversity and primary production of NSW.
The most effective way to manage invasive species is to prevent their initial incursion.
Invasive species have the ability to establish rapidly in new areas and require a timely and
rapid response. Many invasive species are already widely established in NSW, and their
eradication across large areas is not achievable with existing control methods. Priorities for
the control of these species must be determined, focusing resources on areas where the
benefits of control will be greatest.
The NSW Invasive Species Plan aims to prevent new incursions, contain existing
populations and adaptively manage widespread species. The goal is to foster a cooperative
culture where all relevant parties contribute with the aim of minimising the impacts of
invasive species in NSW.
The NSW Invasive Species Plan identifies four goals to realise its vision:
1. Exclude – prevent the establishment of new invasive species
2. Eradicate or contain – eliminate, or prevent the spread of new invasive species
3. Effectively manage – reduce the impacts of widespread invasive species
4. Capacity building – ensure NSW has the ability and commitment to manage invasive
species
These goals aim to deliver specific measurable outcomes and actions that complement the
NSW targets for natural resource management as identified in the NSW State Plan. The Plan’s
principles address current planning processes, efficacy and ethical issues, and is based on
current commitments by the NSW Government and investment by other stakeholders.
The Plan identifies a number of key stakeholders who will implement specific actions. They
include the NSW Department of Primary Industries, Department of Environment and Climate
Change, Rural Lands Protection Boards, Department of Lands, Catchment Management
Authorities, Local Weed Control Authorities, Game Council of NSW, other Government land
managers, industry, special interest groups and community organisations.
page 1
New South Wales Invasive Species Plan 2008–2015
page 2
t h e p l a n ’s V i s i o n
The environment, economy and community of NSW are protected from the
adverse impacts of invasive species.
who has a role in implementing the plan?
The NSW Invasive Species Plan is relevant to all people working in primary
industries and natural resource management who make decisions about invasive
species. This includes those working in field opereations, policy, education,
communications, training, community involvement and research, whether in
industry, educational institutions, government or community organisations.
Introduction
Invasive species affect our environment, economy and social well-being. They can reduce
the productivity of our land and waterways and reduce biodiversity in natural areas. Invasive
species can out-compete, or prey on other species and spread disease. They can also damage
buildings, roads, wharves and other structures. These impacts are detailed further in Box 1
and the effect of climate change on these issues is discussed in Box 2.
This Plan outlines a coordinated response by stakeholders to minimise the impacts of
invasive species in NSW using a risk-based approach. Based on the NSW Government’s
current investment in invasive species management it will also guide future investment as
additional resources become available. The Plan includes existing and planned activities as
well as new projects that will commence as agencies redirect resources in response to the
priorities in the Plan.
An Invasive Species Plan Steering Group comprising representatives from NSW DPI, DECC,
Lands, CMAs and RLPBs, engaged stakeholders in a series of three workshops in 2006 to
prepare a consultation draft of the NSW Invasive species Plan. In September 2007 over
188 groups and individuals were contacted producing forty-five submissions.
All stakeholders – government agencies and authorities such as CMAs, industry,
landholders and members of the community play a valuable role in achieving the challenges,
goals and actions in this Plan. Stakeholders identified current and future invasive species
issues and considered animal welfare, climate change and philosophical objections to lethal
control when setting its overall goals and direction for invasive species management in NSW.
page 3
New South Wales Invasive Species Plan 2008–2015
The Plan provides a framework for the coordinated and cooperative management
of invasive species aiming to prevent new incursions, contain existing populations
and adaptively manage already widespread species. It includes weeds, vertebrate and
invertebrate pests, in terrestrial, freshwater and marine environments. It excludes pathogens,
blue-green algae and the impacts of native species unless they are declared under legislation
(refer to Appendix 4 for more detail).
A comprehensive set of principles, challenges, goals and actions to protect the economy,
environment and community from the adverse impacts of invasive species in NSW are
included. Importantly, the Plan specifies who is responsible for specific tasks and establishes
cross-agency mechanisms to ensure effective communication among stakeholders.
The Plan uses current monitoring and assessment techniques to ensure the effective use
of public resources, and prioritises areas where pest management provides the best cost
to benefit ratio in protecting biodiversity, productivity and community most threatened by
invasive species. It uses best management principles and is integrated into the Australian
Biosecurity (AusBIOSEC) program, an overarching fabric of common principles and guidelines
to enable biosecurity arrangements to be applied consistently across Australia.
The Plan complements other existing strategies such as the NSW State Plan, the
Australian Pest Animal Strategy, the Australian Weeds Strategy, the NSW Biodiversity
Strategy, the NSW Biosecurity Strategy, NSW Natural Resources Monitoring
Evaluation and Reporting Strategy and the National System for the Prevention and
Management of Marine Pest Incursions. It also provides links with industry, regional
and catchment based plans and the many species-specific management strategies already in
existence.
The NSW Invasive Species Plan will provide a State level framework for the coordinated and
cooperative management of invasive species aiming to build the capacity to prevent new
incursions, contain existing populations and adaptively manage already widespread species
in NSW.
page 4
B ox 1 – I m pac t s
There have been significant declines and extinctions of Australia’s native fauna and flora
since the arrival of European settlers; introduced pest animals and weeds have contributed to
much of this loss. With new pests being detected all the time, invasive species represent one
of the greatest threats to biodiversity in Australia.
Pests also cause financial losses to agriculture and other industries and damage areas
of cultural significance. Managing the impacts of pests is an issue of great importance
for managers of all land tenures. The issue requires sustained, long-term management to
minimise damage by pests to environmental, economic and social values.
Wild dogs, feral pigs, rabbits, foxes, feral goats, feral cats and carp are the key pest animals
occurring in NSW. Some other pest animals such as feral horses, wild deer, rats and cane
toads are more localised problems. Pest birds such as common mynahs, exotic turtles (for
example, red-eared sliders) and invertebrate pests (such as red fire ants) are emerging or
potential threats. It is estimated that pest animals cost the Australian economy over $1 billion
annually.
Over 1,350 exotic plant species (weeds) have naturalised in NSW with more than 100 of
them having significant impacts on the environment. In many cases, weeds out-compete
native species to form monocultures which displace indigenous species. In agricultural areas,
weeds can out-compete crops and pasture species resulting in lower economic returns and
the need for expensive control measures.
Many naturalised plants are the result of deliberate introductions for ornamental or
agricultural purposes. Some of the most invasive species are bitou bush, lantana, blackberry,
privet, perennial grasses and exotic vines such as Madeira vine. Authorities are finding new
weed species every year.
More than 200 introduced marine species have been detected in Australian coastal waters
to date. Marine pests such as the northern Pacific sea star and Japanese kelp in Tasmania,
and the Asian green mussel in Cairns, can create serious problems for marine environments
and animals, and the industries and communities they support. Marine pests can also
out‑compete native species and put at risk Australia’s $2.5 billion-a-year fisheries and
aquaculture industries.
Invasive species can cause substantial damage to buildings, roads, infrastructure and
boats. Weed species can damage road surfaces resulting in high maintenance costs and pest
bird species such as starlings have been known to damage telecommunication equipment.
Marine species that foul the hulls of watercraft, damage wharves and block waterways can
seriously disrupt shipping and port operations.
page 5
New South Wales Invasive Species Plan 2008–2015
B ox 2 – C l i m at e c h a n g e a n d i n va s i v e s p e c i e s
Limited data are available on the impacts climate change will have on invasive species in
the future.
In a hotter and drier climate, the distribution of some species may contract in some areas
while expanding into other areas. The range of some warm climate species may also increase,
with other cold climate species decreasing their range.
Invasive species are often better colonisers of disturbed ecosystems than native species
and are able to take advantage of droughts, floods, and increased fire intensity and
frequency that could occur with climate change. Climate change may also increase the threat
of species that are not yet present in New South Wales.
With climate change, many of NSW primary industries and natural ecosystems could face
greater threat from invasive species. They are often well adapted to less rainfall, increased
temperatures, changes in fire regimes, rising sea levels and acidic seawater. Frost tolerant
species such as prickly acacia and Siam weed will expand their range further south. Dry
tolerant plants such as Hudson pear are likely to have a greater distribution, and weeds
currently restricted by the cold, like fireweed are likely to move into higher altitude areas.
Native species may also change their distribution and abundance in response to climate
change which may increase their vulnerability to invasive species.
Future priorities for invasive species management will need to reflect changes in the
distribution, abundance and impacts of invasive species that may occur in response to
changing climates. Actions in the NSW Invasive Species Plan are consistent with the NSW
Biodiversity and Climate Change Adaptation Framework. Key objectives in the Framework
are:
• to understand the interaction between climate change, invasive species and
biodiversity; and
• to identify changes in the distribution, abundance and impact of invasive species
to ensure management practices are adapted to minimise future impacts on NSW’s
biodiversity.
Research has recently commenced to address these objectives.
page 6
P r i n c i p l e s o f t h e I n va s i v e Sp e c i e s P l a n
Stakeholders who were involved in initial consultation workshops for this Plan identified
a range of factors that influence invasive species management. The participants discussed
these factors and created a set of principles that set the framework for the challenges, goals
and actions identified in the plan.
This Plan promotes the following principles in the management of invasive species in NSW:
Planning
• Invasive species issues are properly defined before developing or implementing any
control strategy.
• Management decisions are based on the best available knowledge.
• Management of invasive species is most cost effective with early detection and rapid
response.
• Strategic management programs are developed with an informed and skilled
community.
• Sound policy and legislation frameworks are developed.
Eff e c t i v e m a n ag e m e n t
• Targeted, coordinated and integrated programs, which complement national strategies
are most efficient and effective.
• An adaptive management approach incorporates monitoring of outcomes, changing
technology, knowledge and circumstances.
• Control strategies reflect and adapt to changing environmental conditions.
• Control measures are appropriately target-specific, or conversely, broad spectrum, when
dealing with invasive species.
• Management monitors activities to determine effectiveness.
• Priority is given to invasive species management where it will deliver the greatest
benefits.
Ethics
• Management options use risk management systems.
• Cost-effectiveness, humaneness and target-specificity are balanced.
• The variety of social and ethical values is recognised.
• The inherent value of native species and natural ecosystems is recognised.
• Best practice approaches reduce adverse effects of chemicals on beneficial species and
the environment.
• Integrated pest and weed management techniques are used where appropriate.
page 7
New South Wales Invasive Species Plan 2008–2015
A wide range of people and organisations are involved in invasive species management in
NSW. This Plan recognises the variety of roles that already exist, and attempts to consolidate these
efforts through better coordination and communication between organisations and individuals.
The following table highlights what each group’s roles and responsibilities are, and what part they
will play in implementing the NSW Invasive Species Plan.
I n va s i v e s p e c i e s m a n ag e m e n t – r o l e s a n d r e s p o n s i b i l i t i e s
department of primary industries
The Department of Primary Industries roles are to lead the implementation of the NSW Invasive Species Plan, manage
significant areas of land and water, administer legislation relevant to noxious weeds and pests, provide education and
training resources for weeds, invertebrate and vertebrate pests, and to foster invasive species awareness within NSW’s
primary industries.
Department of Environment and Climate Change
The Department of Environment and Climate Change (DECC) develops and implements management strategies for
invasive species on lands managed under the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974, including national parks, nature
reserves, historic sites, aboriginal areas, state conservation areas and regional parks. DECC also develops, coordinates
and reports on statewide initiatives to reduce the impacts of invasive species on biodiversity. Such initiatives include
the Threatened Species Priorities Action Statement and individual threat abatement plans for invasive species.
Rural lands protection boards
Rural Lands Protection Boards operate under the Rural Lands Protection Act 1998. The RLPB participate in on‑ground
detection and control of vertebrate pests and plague locusts in NSW. This work includes giving advice on land
management techniques, assisting landholders reduce the impacts of pests through group control programs,
conducting inspections for pest/invasive species and ensuring compliance with the Rural Lands Protection Act 1998.
Department of Lands
The Department of Lands is a significant land manager in NSW administering Crown land, which makes up
approximately half of the state. The Department develops and implements invasive species management strategies on
land under its direct control. It also supports activities undertaken by community groups and other stakeholders that
manage land on behalf of the Department.
Catchment management authorities
The CMAs facilitate the management of natural resources across their regions using a catchment-based approach. This
involves fostering cooperation, coordination and capacity building of all land managers to achieve the best on-ground
outcomes. While not having a defined legislative role in controlling invasive species, the CMAs play an important
supporting role providing a link between the lead agencies, councils and other land managers.
The CMAs also prepare Catchment Action Plans, which may incorporate targets concerning the control of invasive
species. The CMAs provide funding for projects which contribute towards the achievement of CAP targets.
page 8
i n VA s i V e s P e c i e s m A n Ag e m e n t – r o l e s A n d r e s P o n s i B i l i t i e s
local weed coNtrol authorItIeS
local weed control authorities (local councils and county councils) are responsible for the implementation of noxious
weed control (under the Noxious Weeds Act 1993), including: enforcing the act, conducting inspections, controlling
weeds on lwca managed lands, developing weed strategy and policy, and providing education, training and resources
for both the public and for staff. local control authorities also have obligations under the Rural Lands Protection Act
1998 and Companion Animals Act 1998 to manage both pest and domestic animals on land they own, occupy or
manage.
game couNcIl NSw
game council NSw is a statutory authority established under the Game and Feral Animal Control Act 2002 and
its associated regulation of 2004. the major objective of game council NSw is to harness the efforts of licensed,
accredited hunters to assist in the reduction of some pest species such as feral pigs, goats, foxes and rabbits.
other goverNmeNt laNd maNagerS
all government departments that manage land have an important role in the management of invasive species in NSw.
these areas include land reserved for its biodiversity, historic or scenic value, land that has commercial value containing
harvestable resources, land used for the State’s infrastructure or transport corridors and land that has not been claimed
for any specific purpose. the role of public land managers includes the development and implementation of pest
management strategies and the education of the community and other stakeholders.
INduStry
Industry has three main roles in invasive species management: (a) managing pests on land and in aquatic
environments used for production; (b) managing or trading potential or known invasive species used for, or held
by nurseries, zoos and collectors, agriculture, horticulture, aquaculture and biofuel development; and (c) providing
vectors or pathways for invasive species establishment through movement of goods, produce and equipment or related
activities such as the disposal of ships’ ballast.
SpecIal INtereSt groupS aNd commuNIt y orgaNISatIoNS
NSw Invasive Species plan recognises the important role community volunteers and special interest groups play in the
management of invasive species in NSw. these groups and individuals provide thousands of hours each week assisting
in the management of private and public lands through direct invasive species control and monitoring activities while
others play valuable supporting roles.
page 9
New South Wales Invasive Species Plan 2008–2015
I m p l e m e n tat i o n o f NSW I n va s i v e Sp e c i e s P l a n
The NSW Invasive Species Plan is a strategic document that will prioritise and direct
invasive species management programs, funding and resources for NSW. The Plan is a
starting point to develop new action strategies while embracing existing strategies that are
complementary to the Plan’s objectives.
Typically, the lead agency will initiate actions arising from the Plan. Other agencies and
individuals play a key role in implementing these actions. The following model shows the
inclusion of consultation, and monitoring and evaluation through the implementation
process.
NSW Invasive Species Plan
Lead Agency or Others
Objective
e.g. support cooperative programs that use integrated
management across all tenures
Determine appropriate action
Consultation
with relevant
stakeholders
Monitoring,
evaluation
and reporting
External reporting
Implementation
page 10
C h a l l e n g e s , G o a l s a n d Ac t i o n s
Stakeholders identified several key issues faced by invasive species managers in NSW. This
Plan recognises that the best way to deal with invasive species is to prevent them coming
into the state. However, when invasive species do come into NSW they can establish quickly,
and unfortunately, many species are already widespread. Invasive species have very real and
imminent implications for NSW’s economy, environment and social well-being.
T h e p l a n h a s f o u r g o a l s to a d d r e s s t h e s e c h a l l e n g e s :
• Exclude – prevent the establishment of new invasive species. The challenge is to identify
species, thoroughly assess potential invasiveness and implement effective barriers to
prevent their establishment.
• Eradicate or contain – eliminate or prevent the spread of new invasive species. The
challenge is to develop and deploy effective and efficient ways to eradicate or contain
an introduced species before it becomes widespread.
• Effectively manage – reduce the impacts of widespread invasive species. The challenge is
to manage or control these species to reduce their impact where benefits of control are
greatest.
• Capacity – ensure NSW has the ability and commitment to manage invasive species. The
challenge is for NSW to have the knowledge, skills, resources and systems to address the
impacts of invasive species.
From these goals flow a hierarchy of objectives, actions and outcomes/outputs that
demonstrate how the broader goals relate to on-ground actions. Throughout the Plan case
studies have been included to show how stakeholders are currently implementing this
approach in the real world.
page 11
New South Wales Invasive Species Plan 2008–2015
Challenge
‘The most effective way to minimise the
impacts of invasive species is to prevent
their initial incursion. The challenge is to
identify species, thoroughly assess potential
invasiveness and implement effective
barriers to prevent their establishment.’
G o a l 1: e xc lu d e
p r e v e n t t h e e s tab l i s h m e n t o f n e w i n va s i v e s p e c i e s
Summary
Indicator
Number of new invasive species likely to have significant impacts, established
Responsibilities
Vertebrate pests
Weeds
Aquatic pests
Invertebrate pests
Lead agency
DPI
DPI
DPI
DPI
Implementation
State government,
industry, RLPB
State and local
government, industry
State and local
government, industry
State and local
government, industry
Action
Outcomes / outputs
1.1 Objective – high risk species and pathways are identified and managed
•
•
•
•
Develop a species risk assessment framework
Undertake a risk assessment process to identify potential high risk pathways
Review legislative arrangements for control of high risk pathways
Implement legislation, education and enforcement programs for effective
management of high risk pathways
• Assist high risk pathway industries to develop industry codes to mitigate risk
• Industry develops and implements labelling standards for invasive species
• Species risk assessment framework developed
• High risk pathways identified
• Appropriate legislation and effective enforcement
mechanisms in place
• Industry implementing codes of practice
• Industry labelling standards developed and implemented
1.2 Objective – early detection capabilities are developed and implemented
• Review existing early detection capabilities
• Improve capacity and develop tools to identify and report suspected new
invasive species
• Respond effectively to invasive species reports
• Maintain diagnostic and identification services
• Maintain NSW invasive species databases and make accessible to
stakeholders
•
•
•
•
Increased capacity for early detection
Fewer established incursions
Lists of high risk species
Incursion plans for very high risk species
1.3 Objective – consistency between State and national legislation and protocols
• Develop State protocols consistent with national approaches to address high • Introduction of high risk species prevented
risk pathways
• Lists of permitted and/or prohibited species
• Support national standards of labelling for risk assessment of imported
• Nationally consistent invasive species lists developed
species
• Work with other jurisdictions to develop consistent invasive species
management approaches
page 12
c A s e s t U dY 1 –
e r A d i c At i o n o F t r A m P A n t s – Y e l lo w c r A Z Y A n t s F r o m n s w
Tramp ants are a highly mobile
group of unrelated ant species, which
opportunistically use human transport
and freight networks to spread around
the world. The ants can affect plants,
animals and ecosystems, human health
and social and cultural values.
The Australian Government has
identified six national priority tramp ant
species: red imported fire ant, tropical
fire ant, electric ant, African bigheaded
ant, yellow crazy ant and Argentine ant.
NSW is free of red imported fire ants,
tropical fire ants and electric ants.
Tramp ants share many behavioural
and ecological traits that can explain
their impact and invasiveness. These
traits include:
Authorities detected yellow crazy
ants at Goodwood Island wharf near the
mouth of the Clarence River in July 2004.
Goodwood Island wharf is significant in
providing shipping supplies to Norfolk
Island and Lord Howe Island.
• Worker ants nurture more than
one queen in a colony so that large
interconnected super-colonies can
develop.
• Tramp ants are aggressive and can
often out-number other ant species
to dominate sites.
• Tramp ants exhibit mutualism
with honeydew-secreting scale
insects, aphids and mealybugs. This
relationship can cause population
outbreaks of those insects and lead
to canopy dieback and vegetation
changes.
NSW Department of Primary
Industries, NSW Department of
Environment and Climate Change, NSW
Maritime Authority and Clarence Valley
Council conducted a collaborative
campaign of surveillance and regular
treatment of the infested and associated
areas.
This campaign has resulted in the
eradication of yellow crazy ants from
Goodwood Island, which has also
prevented the ant’s distribution to
Norfolk and Lord Howe Islands.
page 13
New South Wales Invasive Species Plan 2008–2015
Challenge
‘Invasive species have the ability to
establish in new areas rapidly and successful
control often corresponds directly with timely
and rapid response. The challenge is to develop
and deploy effective and efficient ways to
eradicate or contain an introduced species
before it becomes widespread.’
G o a l 2: E r a d i c at e o r co n ta i n
e l i m i n at e , o r p r e v e n t t h e s p r e a d o f n e w i n va s i v e s p e c i e s
Summary
Indicator(s)
Distribution and abundance of priority emerging species
Success of eradication programs
Responsibilities
Vertebrate pests
Weeds
Aquatic pests
Invertebrate pests
Lead agency
DPI
DPI
DPI
DPI
Implementation
State government,
industry, RLPB, CMA
State and local
State and local
State and local
government, industry, CMA government, industry, CMA government, industry, CMA
Action
Outcomes / outputs
2.1 Objective – timely detection of new incursions
• Maintain and promote community hotlines
• Maintain surveillance capabilities for high risk species
• Increase the capacity of stakeholders to recognise, detect and report new
incursions
• Enhance existing community surveillance networks
• Improve communication and reporting networks between agencies and
stakeholders
• New incursions of priority species detected and
eradicated where practical
• Functioning hotlines for the timely reporting of new
incursions
• Educational material available on identification of high
priority species
2.2 Objective – rapid response to eradicate or contain new invasive species
• Develop rapid response plans and cost-sharing agreements
• Develop and implement appropriate surveillance, eradication or
containment programs for new incursions
• Maintain research capacity to deal with new, emerging and emergency
management issues
• Monitor the effectiveness of eradication or containment programs
page 14
• Prompt containment or eradication and ongoing
monitoring of new incursions
• Cost-sharing arrangements in place involving all
stakeholders
c A s e s t U dY 2 –
PA r t h e n i U m w e e d
Parthenium weed is a vigorous
coloniser of bare ground, denuded
pastures and disturbed sites. It is a
fast growing annual with prolific seed
production. Once established, it very
quickly builds a huge seed bank in the
soil that makes eradication difficult
and expensive. It is endemic to central
Queensland where it causes significant
production losses to the beef industry
and adds to weed control costs for grain
producers.
Parthenium weed is spreading into
southern Queensland where local
government is attempting to contain the
larger outbreaks. It contains powerful
allergens that cause a range of human
health problems, including asthma and
severe contact dermatitis.
Despite it being widespread
and having significant impact in
Queensland, NSW has remained free of
parthenium thanks to the diligence of
Government agencies, landowners and
other stakeholders in implementing
surveillance and control strategies.
Parthenium weed spreads by seed
and is not particularly adapted to
long distance dispersal by wind, water
or animals. The main means of long
distance spread is by humans through
contaminated harvesting machinery,
grain, hay, seed and mud falling from
vehicles.
Regular outbreaks continue to occur
on roadsides and particularly on the
Newell Highway but local government
weeds officers have been very effective
at finding and eradicating these
infestations.
Outbreaks on private property are
often difficult to find and generally
larger than those found on roadsides.
Private property outbreaks have a much
greater potential for establishing a
permanent population of parthenium
weed in NSW.
In 1989, a property owner
discovered a parthenium weed
infestation covering 160 hectares
on his property west of Gunnedah
NSW. The origin of the infestation was
from contaminated pasture seed the
farmer had unknowingly purchased
from central Queensland, the sale
of which was in contravention of
Queensland seeds legislation. The
property owner promptly reported it
to the NSW Department of Agriculture,
now NSW DPI and weeds officers from
Castlereagh-Macquarie County Council
commenced an eradication program.
Weeds officers inspected the outbreak
every month during the summer and
autumn, removing any parthenium
weed plants found, and burning them
in a hot fire. The officers also treated the
entire area, including the fire site with
residual herbicide and conducted follow
up inspections of the site during the
following months.
This significant parthenium outbreak
was eradicated in four years due to early
detection and an extremely thorough
eradication program. Had the infestation
been undiscovered for several years,
the infestation would have developed
an enormous bank of seed in the soil
and eradication would have extremely
difficult, if not impossible.
page 15
New South Wales Invasive Species Plan 2008–2015
Challenge
‘Many invasive species are already widely
established in NSW. The challenge is to manage
or control these species to reduce their impact
where benefits of control are greatest.’
G o a l 3: Eff e c t i v e ly m a n ag e
r e d u c e t h e i m pac t s o f w i d e s p r e a d i n va s i v e s p e c i e s
Summary
Indicator
Success of control programs for selected widespread species
Responsibilities
Vertebrate pests
Weeds
Aquatic pests
Invertebrate pests
Lead by
DPI
DPI
DPI
DPI
Implementation
RLPB, State government,
CMA, industry, Game
Council, private and public
land managers
Local government, State
government, CMA,
industry, private and public
land managers
State and local
government, CMA,
industry, private and public
land and water managers
State government, CMA,
industry, local government,
RLPB, public land
managers
Action
Outcomes / outputs
3.1 Objective – identification and prioritisation of management programs where benefits are greatest
• Provide clear benchmarks and processes to measure invasive species
impacts and prioritise management actions
• Identify where invasive species are having the greatest impacts on primary
industries, environment, human health or infrastructure
• Prioritise management efforts based on impacts
• Management programs prioritised to give the greatest
benefit
3.2 Objective – effective and targeted on-ground control
• Develop and implement State management plans for high priority species
• Link State and regional management plans with Catchment Action Plans
(CAPs)
• Develop best practice guidelines where required
• Support cooperative programs that use integrated management across all
tenures
• Identify opportunities to include appropriate land use change, commercial
harvesting, hunting and fishing as part of management
• Monitor the effectiveness of management programs and adapt as required
• Ensure regulatory framework appropriate for the development and
implementation of new control techniques
page 16
• Impacts reduced at priority sites
• Regional and local cooperation and coordination
enhanced
• Management plans linked with CAPs
c A s e s t U dY 3 –
F oX co n t r o l to P r ot e c t l i t t l e t e r n s
The NSW Fox Threat Abatement Plan
or Fox TAP, illustrates why it is necessary
to focus available resources on areas
where the benefits of control will be
greatest, particularly when species are
widespread and control is difficult to
achieve.
no fox control
01/02
02/03
03/04
04/05
05/06
06/07
Figure 1: Breeding success of little terns in NSW at
sites with and without fox control, calculated as
the sum of the number of birds fledged divided by
the sum of breeding pairs.
The baiting programme has been
highly successful for little tern breeding
success (Figure 1). Although foxes
remained a common source of mortality,
little terns have had higher breeding
success at fox-controlled nesting sites,
than in nil-treatment sites. The breeding
success of little terns also appears to
be improving with time. The control of
foxes will continue under the Fox TAP to
increase the recruitment of little terns.
Photo: Dave Gallan
Although fox control commenced
at many sites during the late 1990’s,
the Fox TAP recognised the protection
of the breeding sites as high priority
and provided resources for continued
control and monitoring. Managers were
able to monitor and compare sites
where foxes were controlled, with sites
where terns were found breeding in
isolated areas providing a ‘nil-treatment’
comparison of fledging success.
0.5
Photo: Jodie Dunn
Fox control protects the breeding
areas of the little tern Sterna albifrons, an
endangered ground-nesting shorebird
at 13 sites along the NSW coast. Foxes
have caused the nesting failure of entire
colonies of little terns by eating eggs
and chicks during breeding seasons.
The program is reducing fox numbers
around all known nesting sites in NSW
to minimise predation during the little
tern breeding season.
fox control
Photo: Jodie Dunn
The Fox TAP outlines strategies for the
protection of 34 threatened species at
greatest risk from fox predation, and the
sites where fox control is most critical for
those species.
1.0 SucceSS (fledglings ÷ breeding pair)
page 17
New South waleS INvaSIve SpecIeS plaN 2008–2015
c A s e s t U dY 4 –
e r A d i c At i o n o F o n e - s P ot l i V e B e A r e r s F r o m lo n g r e e F g o l F co U r s e
Small mosquito fish called one-spot
livebearers Palloceros caudimaculatus
are a significant aquatic pest, whose
invasive potential has seen them listed
as a noxious species in NSW. In 1999, an
unknown person released the pest into
a pond at Long Reef Golf Course. This
location is the only known population of
one-spot livebearers in NSW.
The fish rapidly recovered from a
previous eradication attempt in 2002
demonstrating their hardy nature and
resilient breeding strategy.
NSW DPI conducted another
eradication program in June 2006
combining the experience and
resources of NSW DPI, the golf course,
the Australian Museum, and Warringah
Pittwater Rural Fire Service to improve
on the previous eradication method.
page 18
NSW DPI timed the exercise to
minimise both disruption to the golf
course’s irrigation, and potential impact
on the resident frog population. DECC
conducted a faunal survey and trapped
and relocated native species prior to
the eradication. Course management
reduced pond volumes to maximise the
effect of the pesticide and put in place
various environmental safeguards.
In January 2007, Course management
and the Australian Museum surveyed
the ponds using electro-fishing,
trapping and spotlighting techniques.
They found no one-spot livebearers.
Following several recent surveys,
authorities are optimistic that they have
eradicated the pest.
The Australian Museum is attempting
to find a suitable source of green and
golden bell frogs to expand their current
breeding efforts on the course. Large
numbers of tadpoles were evident
during the post eradication survey and
further introduction will take advantage
of reduced aquatic predation in the
ponds.
Challenge
‘Invasive species have very real and
imminent implications for NSW’s
economy, environment and social wellbeing. The challenge is for NSW to have the
knowledge, skills, resources and systems to
address the impact of invasive species.’
G o a l 4: Capac i t y
e n s u r e NSW h a s t h e ab i l i t y a n d co m m i t m e n t to m a n ag e i n va s i v e s p e c i e s
Summary
IndicatorS
Number of people with relevant training in the management of invasive species
Number of community groups involved in the management of invasive species
State government funds allocated for the management of invasive species
Responsibilities
Vertebrate pests
Weeds
Aquatic pests
Invertebrate pests
Lead by
DPI
DPI
DPI
DPI
Implementation
RLPB, State government,
CMA, industry, Game
Council, private and public
land managers
Local government, State
government, CMA,
industry, private and public
land managers
State and local
government, CMA,
industry, private and public
land and water managers
State government, CMA,
industry, local government,
RLPB, public land
managers
Action
Outcomes / outputs
4.1 Objective – government manages high priority invasive species on public land and waterways
• Ensure control obligations are effectively applied by all land and water
managers
• Adequately resource priority invasive species management
• Develop management plans for high priority Crown and other public lands
• Invasive species on public lands and waterways are
managed effectively
4.2 Objective – private landholders motivated to manage invasive species proactively
• Invasive species on private lands are managed effectively
• Develop and implement communication campaigns that increase target
audience awareness and understanding
• Number of stakeholders participating in coordinated
programs
• Publicise ‘success stories’ and also the penalties imposed for non-compliance
• Develop and implement incentives for the management of invasive species • Increased uptake of incentives
on non-productive land and to protect biodiversity
4.3 Objective – increased community acceptance of and involvement in effective invasive species management
• Develop and implement targeted communication campaigns based on
surveys of community perceptions
• Identify further opportunities for community involvement
• Review and improve information delivery to support stakeholders with
access to current research, database information training, and incentives
• Inform stakeholders of their legal and community responsibilities
• Build on existing communication networks to ensure effective dissemination
of resources and information to all stakeholder groups
• Provide facilities and technology to minimise the introduction and spread of
invasive species
• Maintain and build on existing volunteer networks
• Community and stakeholders accept the need for and
involved in management programs
• Increased uptake of incentives
• Increased participation
• Use of facilities and technology to minimise the
introduction and spread of invasive species
page 19
New South Wales Invasive Species Plan 2008–2015
Action
Outcomes / outputs
4.4 Objective – integration of invasive species management into education programs
• Increased awareness of and involvement in invasive
• Review current education and training programs to identify gaps and
species management
integrate invasive species issues
• Promote and encourage invasive species awareness through participation in
existing programs
• Regularly update education providers on invasive species initiatives
• Regularly review and adapt education programs
• Develop a range of information, education and training resources
4.5 Objective – skilled workforce implementing invasive species management
• Develop competency based education and training courses for specific
stakeholder groups including volunteers
• Regularly review and adapt education and training programs
• An increase in the number of operators holding
competency based qualifications
4.6 Objective – ability to measure the effectiveness of invasive species management
• Provide guidelines for monitoring, evaluation and reporting
• Consolidate, evaluate and report State, regional and local monitoring
information
• State-wide databases developed and maintained
• Monitoring programs being implemented
4.7 Objective – improve knowledge base for invasive species management
•
•
•
•
•
•
Review existing knowledge to identify gaps and prioritise future research
Maintain research capacity
Build research skills through recognition and training
Strengthen research by encouraging cooperative research groups
Continue research to develop and improve control methods
Undertake research on the effects of both climate change and general
environmental changes on invasive species
•
•
•
•
•
Research capability maintained or improved
Research priorities identified
Research conducted and results published and extended
More control methods available
Better understanding of the effects of change on invasive
species
4.8 Objective – roles and responsibilities defined for invasive species management
• Ensure roles and responsibilities for each stakeholder are clearly defined and • Arrangements in place for managing invasive species
understood
• Memorandum of understanding implemented where
appropriate
• Establish regional advisory networks for the management of invasive
species
• CMAs and State agencies implement and report on Natural Resources
Commission targets and indicators for invasive species
page 20
Action
Outcomes / outputs
4.9 Objective – government commitment to implement the components of the Invasive Species Plan
• Include relevant actions from this Plan in CAPs
• Continue funding programs and incentives for invasive species programs
• Direct noxious weed grant funding to assist implementation of State and
regional strategies
• NSW Government continues to contribute to national cost-sharing
arrangements
• Plan meets its objectives
4.10 Objective – legislation and policies implemented and enforced consistently for effective invasive species management
• Review current legislation to address overlaps, gaps and inconsistency with
NSW and other national legislation
• Ensure all legislation is integrated with agency policies and strategies
• Ensure legislation enables the containment and eradication of high risk
invasive species
• Ensure control obligations consistently apply across all land managers and
are tailored to the invasive species characteristics
• Develop materials to educate and guide all stakeholders in compliance
obligations
• Develop improved enforcement capabilities
• Legislation in place for effective management of invasive
species with appropriate options for enforcement
4.11 Objective – monitor progress of implementation of the Plan
• Task the NR&E CEO Cluster Group to monitor implementation of this Strategy • Plan meets its objectives
• Develop reporting arrangements to communicate the performance of the
Plan to stakeholders
4.12 Objective – have established cost sharing arrangements
• Develop cost sharing models
• Lead Agencies defined for model invasive species activities
• Participate in the national cost sharing arrangements of AusBIOSEC, Animal
Health Response Agreement, Plant Health Response Agreement and
National Marine Incursion Plan
• Cost sharing arrangements in place
page 21
New South waleS INvaSIve SpecIeS plaN 2008–2015
c A s e s t U dY 5 –
w r e s t l i n g A l l i g Ato r w e e d i n t h e r i V e r i n A
Alligator weed is a highly invasive
weed that grows both on land and in
water. It can tolerate herbicides and
spreads by fragments, making it a
serious weed of waterways, wetlands
and floodplains in Australia.
Alligator weed threatens irrigated
and floodplain-based farming and has
the potential to spread to most nonarid parts of Australia. In some areas,
alligator weed will persist and grow
above a floodplain; such as the case in
the Riverina towns of Griffith and Albury
where alligator weed has infested water
storage dams and several irrigation
channels.
NSW DPI established the Alligator
Weed Taskforce to manage these
infestations in the Riverina region.
Various stakeholders combined to
manage the weed strategically to a point
where eradication is now possible.
page 22
The project has involved an intensive
treatment program using suppression
and eradication strategies identified
in the new Alligator Weed Control
Manual. Key on-ground activities
included fencing of infestations, piping
of infested drainage lines and physical
removal using digging and herbicides.
An inspection program will follow
this control program on downstream
irrigation channels to ensure new
infestations are recorded, treated and
controlled.
A range of stakeholder partnerships
has developed because of this taskforce
and various on-ground projects.
Cooperation across many levels of
government coupled with active
partnerships with local communities has
demonstrated that this is a successful
approach to manage a serious aquatic
weed.
NSW Nat u r a l R e s o u r c e s M o n i to r i n g , Eva luat i o n a n d
R e p o r t i n g S t r at e g y
The NSW government has adopted a statewide strategy for monitoring NSW natural
resource management targets. The Natural Resources Monitoring, Evaluation and Reporting
(MER) Strategy seeks to measure long-term trends in NSW’s natural resources and the
effectiveness of specific management actions to sustain them. The NSW Government’s
Natural Resource Management targets include a specific target for invasive species that
‘by 2015 there is a reduction in the impact of invasive species’ (New South Wales State Plan,
Priority E4).
Three indicators will assess progress towards this target:
• Number of new invasive species established (all new species whose impacts are likely to
be significant)
• Distribution and abundance of emerging invasive species (selected species only)
• Success of control programs for widespread invasive species (selected species only) as
measured by (i) a reduction in biodiversity impacts (e.g. a reduction in the impacts of
foxes on biodiversity); and (ii) a reduction in other impacts (e.g. land, water and socioeconomic impacts).
Reporting on these state-wide indicators will be through the State of the Environment
reports and progressively through Catchment Health Report Cards for individual CMA
regions. NSW DPI will lead an inter-agency working group to oversee the state-wide
monitoring requirements for invasive species.
In addition to MER obligations for invasive species management, target milestones
have been specifically developed to measure the success of the key outcomes and actions
identified in this Plan.
page 23
New South Wales Invasive Species Plan 2008–2015
M i l e s to n e s
Milestones are a way of showing achievements in the life of a plan or strategy. The
following milestones relate to the various goals in this document, and attempt to show
how we will make progress to achieve the goals in the Plan. Because of the complexity
of objectives in this document, the milestones include a review date to show that work is
continuing towards these goals beyond the initial achievement date.
General
M1 NSW Invasive Species Plan complies with current National and State strategies, initiatives and industry best practice
2008 (achievement date) / Yearly (review date)
M2Report on the implmentation of the NSW Invasive Species Plan to Natural Resources & Environment CEO Cluster
Group 2008 / Yearly
2008
2009
2010
2011
M1
M2
M3
M8
M11
M12
M4
M5
M6
M7
M9
M10
M13
M14
M15
goal 1
M3Reporting on the number of new invasive species completed 2008 / Yearly
M4 Species risk assessment framework completed and high risk pathways are identified 2009 / Yearly
M5Lists of high risk species are developed 2009 / Yearly
goal 2
M6Reports on the distribution and abundance of priority emerging species completed 2009 / 2011, 2014
Goal 3
M7Priority widespread species for monitoring identified 2009 / Yearly
M8 Invasive species monitoring and control programs in place for selected widespread species 2008 / 2014
Goal 4
M9 Invasive species management research priorities identified 2009 / 2012, 2015
M10Competency based training in place for invasive species management 2009 / Yearly
M11Arrangements in place to manage widespread species 2008 / Yearly
M12Arrangements in place to manage new incursions of pest animals and weeds 2008 / Yearly
M13Arrangements in place to manage new incursions of invertebrates 2009 / Yearly
M14Arrangements in place to manage aquatic pest species 2010 / Yearly
M15Legislation and codes of practice in place for effective management and enforcement of invasive species
2011 / Yearly
page 24
APPendiX 1
Stakeholder organisations and individuals that participated in workshops or contributed
to the development of the NSW Invasive Species Plan.
advisory council on recreational fishing
ms lynda Newman – laperouse
NSw department of primary Industries
associated fauna & marine parks of NSw
mr geoff portbury – Jerilderie
NSw farmers association
australian deer association
local government association of NSw
NSw maritime
australian museum
local government Shires association of NSw
Nursery & garden Industry association, NSw
& act
baulkham hills Shire council
lord howe Island board
orange city council
bega valley Shire council
milton rural landcare group
regional relations & education
bland Shire council
monaro regional weeds committee
riverina Noxious weeds advisory groups
blue mountains city council
moss vale rlpb
rSpca NSw
bogan Shire council
mr brian everingham – engadine NSw
ryde tafe
bourke Shire council
mr ross goddard – Rossmore NSw
Shoalhaven city council
burwood council
mr eric fair
Snowy hydro limited
canberra bushwalking club
ms margaret hurle – Little Brimble NSw
Southern rivers catchment management
authority
central west catchment management authority ms barbie Kelsall – broughton brook NSw
State council, rural lands protection boards
cSIro
mr ross mcphie – Noondoo NSw
Sydney coastal councils
department of environment and water
resources
ms dianne thompson – fisher act
Sydney metropolitan catchment management
authority
eastern and western riverina Nwa group
murray‑darling basin commission
Sydney North weeds committee
environment act
murrumbidgee Irrigation
Sydney water
game council NSw
Namoi catchment management authority
taronga park Zoo
gunnedah Shire council
National parks association of NSw
university of NSw
hawkesbury Nepean catchment management
authority
Nature conservation council of NSw
university of Sydney
hay Shire council
North coast regional weeds committee
urban bushland management
hunter‑central rivers catchment management
authority
Northern Inland weeds advisory committee
vaucluse progress association
hunter region landcare Network
Noxious weeds advisory committee
western catchment management authority
Inverell Shire council
NSw council of freshwater anglers
wild dog destruction board
Kosciusko huts association
NSw department of environment & climate
change
wildlife preservation Society of australia
lachlan catchment management authority
NSw department of lands
world wildlife fund – australia
lismore city council
NSw department of Natural resources
page 25
New South Wales Invasive Species Plan 2008–2015
A pp e n d i x 2 – A bb r e v i at i o n s
AusBIOSEC
Australian Biosecurity System for Primary Production and the Environment
CAP
Catchment Action Plan
CMA
Catchment Management Authority
CSIRO
Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation
DECC
NSW Department of Environment and Climate Change
DPI
NSW Department of Primary Industries
NRC
Natural Resources Commission
NR&E CEO cluster group
Natural Resources and Environment CEO cluster group
RLPB
Rural Lands Protection Board
RSPCA
Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
A pp e n d i x 3 – G lo s s a r y o f t e r m s
page 26
Aquatic
Living or growing in or on the water (fresh, brackish or salt).
Best practice guidelines
Control protocols which seek to balance cost-effectiveness, non-target damage and
humaneness.
Biodiversity
The variety of life forms, the different plants, animals, micro-organisms, the genes they
contain and the ecosystems they form.
Biosecurity
The management of risks posed by organisms to the economy, environment and people’s
health through exclusion, mitigation, adaptation, control and eradication.
Commercial harvesting
Managing the invasive species for financial gain.
Competency based
Training which develops the skills, knowledge and attitudes required to achieve
competency standards.
Containment
Restricting the spread of an invasive species incursion.
Emerging species
A newly established species whose distribution and abundance is expanding.
Eradication
Removal of the entire population of a species in a managed area: Completely eliminating
that species including reproductive propagules.
Establishment
The point at which a species can reproduce at a sufficient level ensuring survival in a new
habitat without new genetic input from outside the system.
Evaluation
The process or results of an assessment or appraisal in relation to stated objectives,
standards, or criteria.
Incursion
An isolated population of an invasive species detected in an area where it has not been
previously established.
Impacts
The (usually negative) economic, environmental and/or social effects of invasive species.
Invasive species
A species whose establishment and spread threatens ecosystems, habitats or species with
economic or environmental harm.
Invertebrate
An animal without a backbone e.g. insects.
Native species
A species within its natural range (past and present).
Natural range
The area which a species can reach and occupy by its own legs, wings, wind/water-borne
or other dispersal systems, even if it is seldom found there.
New invasive species
Any introduced species that has not been recorded in NSW previously and whose impacts
are likely to be significant or a species previously recorded in NSW that has since exhibited
invasiveness.
Pathways
The means by which invasive species move e.g. air, surface water, groundwater, plants,
animals and by human agents.
Pest
Any plant or animal having, or with potential to have an adverse economic, environmental
or social impact.
Protected area
An area of land and/or sea especially dedicated to the protection and maintenance of
biodiversity, and of natural and associated cultural resources, and managed through legal
or other effective means.
Protocol
A procedure or set of rules.
Public land and water
Lands and water managed by public authorities.
Public authority
• a Minister of the Crown; or
• local authority constituted by or under an Act; or
• a government department or administrative office; or
• a statutory body representing the Crown; or
• the trustee or trustees of land reserved or dedicated for any public use or purpose; or
• a member of staff or other person who exercises functions on behalf of any of the above.
Risk management
The culture, processes and structures that are directed towards realising potential
opportunities whilst managing adverse effects.
Stakeholders
Those people and organisations who may affect, be affected by, or perceive themselves to
be affected by a decision, activity or risk.
Terms of reference
The scope allowed to persons conducting an enquiry of any kind. This term has come to
be used in almost a generic sense to be a guide for a wide range of activities including
investigations, reviews, projects, implementation and the development of plans.
Threatened (species,
populations and
ecological communities)
Is specified in the NSW Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 as either endangered,
vulnerable, or presumed extinct.
Vectors
Pathway or means allowing the spread of an invasive species into an area or ecosystem.
Vertebrate
Animal with a backbone.
Weed
Plants that are unwanted in a given situation and which usually have detectable negative
economic, environmental or social effects.
Widespread
A species widely distributed in NSW.
page 27
New South Wales Invasive Species Plan 2008–2015
A pp e n d i x 4 –
L e g i s l at i o n r e l e va n t to t h e NSW I n va s i v e Sp e c i e s P l a n
Apiaries Act 1985
National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974
Biological Control Act 1986
Non-Indigenous Animals Act 1987
Catchment Management Authorities Act 2003
Noxious Weeds Act 1993
Companion Animals Act 1998
NSW Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995
Crown Lands Act 1989
Plant Diseases Act 1924
Deer Act 2006
Quarantine Act 1908 (Cwlth)
Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979
Rural Lands Protection Act 1998
Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act
1999 (Cwlth)
Soil Conservation Act 1938
Exotic Diseases of Animals Act 1991
Stock Diseases Act 1923
Fisheries Management Act 1994
Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1979
Forestry Act 1916
Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997
Forestry and National Park Estate Act 1998
Water Management Act 2000
Game and Feral Animal Control Act 2002
Western Lands Act 1901
Local Government Act 1993
Wild Dog Destruction Act 1921
Native Vegetation Act 2003
page 28