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Legislation, policies and permits

Legislation, policies and permits are developed and administered by the Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries to ensure the fight against invasive pests in Queensland is coordinated, consistent, and does not waste precious resources.

The most important tool in this fight is the Land Protection (Pest and Stock Route Management) Act 2002. This legislation governs actions for the control and management of declared plants and animals in the state. It also provides local governments with the legal instrument they need to enforce the management of high-priority weeds and pest animals.

In addition to legislation, policies are required to provide information and guidance regarding pest management issues. These policies are targeted at individuals, community groups and state and local governments to assist with their pest management activities and ensure they are undertaken in a strategic and coordinated manner.

One important function of the Land Protection (Pest and Stock Route Management) Act 2002 is the ability to declare plants and animals that are considered serious or potentially serious pests in Queensland. The department imposes a range of restrictions on declared plants and animals in Queensland (including introduction, possession and sale) but allows certain activities under declared pest permits.

Note: The Land Protection (Pest and Stock Route Management) Act 2002 covers only weeds and pest animals. For exotic pest fish, marine pests and some invasive ants, see the relevant Acts.