The NSW Government has announced $10 million in new funding to support local councils in the fight against high-risk weeds, including the fast-spreading Tropical Soda Apple (TSA).
Member for Oxley, Michael Kemp, has welcomed the funding, but says it won’t go far enough to fix the growing threat across regional NSW.
“TSA is spreading rapidly through the Macleay Valley and Northern Tablelands, and our primary producers are paying the price, both in time and out of their own pockets,” Mr Kemp said.
Mr Kemp, who has been working closely with other regional MPs to raise the alarm, said the announcement must be backed by clear direction and practical access to support.
“This funding is a start, but we need answers on how our councils and landholders can apply for this support, and how much of it will be directed to regions like Oxley?” he said.
“I’ll be working hard to make sure Oxley gets its fair share. Our councils, weed officers and landholders have been doing a great job under difficult circumstances, and they need the tools and resources to stay ahead of the spread,” he said.
“I’ll be working closely with our local councils and NSW Farmers to ensure our region gets its fair share of support so we can get on top of the threat.”
Mr Kemp is also calling for Tropical Soda Apple to be listed as a Weed of National Significance, which would bring further federal attention and resources.
“Our farmers are stepping up. They’re reporting outbreaks. They’re trying to manage infestations. But they can’t do it alone. The government must get serious and list TSA as a Weed of National Significance.”
The funding will target five high-risk weeds, including the parthenium weed, rubber vine, TSA, alligator weed and the harrisia cactus.