Conferences are important events to stay informed on changing priorities and to share our experiences and challenges. One cannot underestimate the challenges we face with the ever-increasing weed load. We are fortunate to work with a passionate and collaborative workforce. As such, it is difficult and personally challenging when weed management priorities change.

With the National Herbarium of NSW, we have identified more than 2,500 plant taxa in the process of naturalising in NSW. This is the first complete census of alien plants since Charles Moore’s publication in 1884. While we recognise that the great majority of these naturalising plants will not become weeds, it is essential those of high risk and highly invasive are identified and tackled early.

This talk will expand on this policy context, risk identification, risk analysis & evaluation and risk treatment of such weeds as well as the personal challenges these present. We cannot set the priorities without your help in early detection of naturalising plants or those already identified State priority weeds, such as Prohibited Matter.

Once detected, NSW is in an excellent position to respond. In three years (March 2022 to March 2025), 476 individuals have assisted with 23 of our State-led responses. This only relates to weeds, and we are aware our partners have also assisted with other biosecurity emergencies such as varroa and ants as well as regional incursions. At the front line are our Biosecurity Officers in Local Control Authorities (LCAs). Here we have a well-trained team, thanks in part to the training DPIRD provides, funding through the NSW Weeds Action Program, and continuous improvement of LCAs led through our audits under the NSW Standard for Weed Management Capacity. But overall, it comes down to your expertise and passion. I encourage you all to share this during this conference.