A scathing new report from the Natural Resources Commission has revealed that invasive species are costing New South Wales at least $1.9 billion annually – with the potential to balloon to a staggering $29.7 billion per year by 2030.
NSW’s environment is in the grip of an invasive species crisis, exacerbated by natural disasters, climate change, chronic underfunding and a lack of political will.
Weeds like lantana and madeira vine are smothering native plants, foxes and feral cats prey on birds and small mammals and streams and wetlands are being trampled by hard-hoofed feral deer and horses.
The preliminary NSW Invasive Species Management Review highlights these growing challenges and uncovers major shortcomings in the state’s current efforts to tackle the problem. The report made 71 recommendations to overhaul the system.
Key suggestions include establishing a 5-year Invasive Species Investment Program, creating a NSW Invasive Species Management Committee with decision-making authority and empowering local governments to enforce pet cat containment.
Additionally, the review recommends the appointment of a First Nations Land and Sea Country Commissioner – something our Voice of Country campaign has been strongly advocating for.
Overall, the report paints a clear picture that the current system is broken. It is underfunded and uncoordinated, leaving NSW vulnerable to the escalating impacts of invasive species.
A final report that will include priorities, timelines and responsibilities will be released over the coming months.
The NSW Government now faces a critical opportunity to implement real change and avoid future environmental and economic devastation.
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