Western Queensland pest control receives funding injection post floods

Outback graziers and farmers in flood affected parts of the west will benefit from a $20 million war chest for their battle against invasive pests and weeds that have arrived following this year's torrential downpours.

This commitment to strong biosecurity and pest control measures is part of a broader $25.6 million primary industry recovery package for the region jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA). 

The aftermath of heavy rainfall and flooding in western Queensland has created ideal conditions for wild animals and crippling insect infestations. 

These threats not only disrupt primary industries but also impact food security, agricultural exports, and community livability.

The investment will fund critical pest and biosecurity programs, including repairs to wild dog barrier fencing, and ongoing efforts to manage threats from wild dogs, feral pigs, and locusts.

Up to $1 million will be specifically directed towards locust control in disaster activated areas.

This support is set to alleviate some of the pressing challenges being faced by graziers out west, safeguarding long-term agricultural productivity and ensuring Queensland’s farming sector can return to full output.

The funding also highlights the commitment from all levels of government to prioritise rural resilience, recovery, and economic sustainability. 

Local government areas receiving support through this initiative include Balonne, Barcaldine, Barcoo, Blackall-Tambo, Boulia, Bulloo, Diamantina, Longreach, Murweh, Paroo, Quilpie, and Winton.

The Queensland Government also continues to closely monitor pest activity beyond these disaster activated regions.

This funding will further strengthen Queensland's agricultural sector, a key contributor to the state’s goal of achieving $30 billion in primary industries production output by 2030.

For more details on disaster recovery programs or assistance available for the agricultural sector, visit the Business Queensland website.