Pest animals and weeds don’t recognise fences or property boundaries and left unmanaged, they can quickly spread across neighbouring properties, threatening agricultural production, native wildlife and the health of the Hunter’s natural landscapes.
Under the Biosecurity Act 2015, everyone who owns, occupies or manages land in NSW has a General Biosecurity Duty to take reasonable and practical steps to prevent, eliminate or minimise biosecurity risks. That means understanding the pest animals and weeds present on your property, taking action to manage them and working with neighbours to reduce their spread.
Whether you manage a large farming enterprise, a lifestyle block or a bush property, every landholder has a part to play. Meeting your General Biosecurity Duty is not just about protecting your own property it’s about being a good neighbour and contributing to healthier farms, stronger communities and a more resilient environment.
If you’d like advice on meeting your General Biosecurity Duty or becoming involved in local pest management programs, contact your Hunter Local Land Services Biosecurity Team on 1300 795 299.
