Compliance and enforcement of pest and weed biosecurity in NSW

Background

In 2023, the interim Biosecurity Commissioner heard from key stakeholders about issues with the current compliance and enforcement approach to pest and weed biosecurity in NSW. This included a lack of clarity and understanding about how compliance and enforcement of pest and weed biosecurity is undertaken, particularly regarding the application of the General Biosecurity Duty (GBD) and how an authorised officer determines if a person or entity has met their biosecurity obligations.

There is also a perception that a different standard is applied for pest and weed management undertaken by public land managers compared to private land holders.

The Independent Biosecurity Commissioner (the Commissioner) examined the delivery and operation of pest and weed biosecurity compliance and enforcement, including issues that may be creating a perception of an inconsistent enforcement approach.

What is included in the analysis?

The scope of the project include consideration of:

• the outcomes from the Natural Resources Commission Invasive Species Management Review
• the Commissioner’s review of governance arrangements for pest and weed management
• jurisdictional approaches to pest and weed biosecurity compliance and enforcement
• current arrangements, principles, policies, procedures and guidance materials for compliance and enforcement in NSW
• current training materials and guidance provided to authorised officers
• compliance and enforcement data and information and how it is shared amongst enforcement agencies

The project did not include consideration of emergency management arrangements for declared biosecurity incidents.

Stakeholder engagement

The Commissioner worked closely with stakeholders, seeking input and contribution towards the development of advice and recommendations for improving compliance and enforcement of pest and weed biosecurity in NSW.

Final Report and NSW Government Response