Funding To Fight Weeds

The Member for Solomon, Mr David Tollner MP today announced more Australian Government funding to fight the war against weeds.

"In my electorate of Solomon, the Australian Government has allocated $339,287 to the Northern Territory Department of Natural Resources, Environment and the Arts for a project to support the continued implementation of weed eradication programs conducted by 12 Community Aboriginal Rangers in the Top End, targeting Mimosa,” Mr Tollner said.

A further $3.8 million for 38 projects across the country is being funded under the Defeating the Weeds Menace Programme.

"This is a terrific investment and I look forward to the positive outcomes of the project. These projects will target Weeds of National Significance – some of the worst plants populating our landscape,” Mr Tollner said.
"The funding will help stop the spread of weeds like gorse, boneseed, bridal creeper, serrated tussock, prickly acacia, alligator weed and rubber vine by improving the management of infestations.”

"Weeds drain an estimated $4 billion a year out of the Australian economy, including $1.5 billion in control costs – a burden borne mainly by farmers. Weeds are also among the most serious threats to Australia's natural environment and represent the biggest threat to our biodiversity after habitat loss,” Mr Tollner said.

"These projects are smart and practical measures that will help ease costs for primary producers and reduce the threat posed by weeds to Australia's waterways and unique plants and animals.”

The Defeating the Weeds Menace programme began as an Australian Government commitment of $44 million made in 2004. Further details about the Defeating the Weeds Menace programme can be obtained from:
http://www.daff.gov.au/natural-resources/invasive/weed-menace

2007-05-30