Nationals Member for Clarence Richie Williamson says the Minns Labor Government must act urgently to reinstate funding for Landcare programs in the Northern Rivers to combat the spread of cane toads.
Mr Williamson said funding for cane toad control programs has been slashed by more than 60 per cent, leaving Landcare groups struggling to maintain their vital work.
“The dedicated teams at Richmond Landcare, the Border Range Richmond Valley Landcare Network, and Clarence Landcare, who work tirelessly across my electorate, deserve consistent and adequate government support,” Mr Williamson said.
“Ongoing funding is critical to slowing the spread of these invasive pests, which are encroaching on new areas at an alarming rate.”
Mr Williamson said the NSW Government previously allocated $160,000 annually to support Landcare’s efforts; a commitment that was cut in the latest budget.
“This funding cut is a short-sighted decision that puts our environment at risk. Cane toads are more than just a nuisance – they represent an ecological disaster marching south through the Clarence electorate. The government appears to be asleep at the wheel while this biosecurity threat escalates,” he said.
The NSW Government’s Cane Toad Biosecurity Zone encompasses all areas of the state except the northeastern portion, where cane toads have already established populations. This buffer zone, which cuts through the Clarence electorate, is now at risk of being breached.
“Without proper funding, we cannot effectively defend the biosecurity zone or prevent further incursions. It’s imperative that the government reinstates this vital funding to support Landcare’s efforts in controlling the movement of cane toads,” Mr Williamson said.
He urged the government to prioritise environmental protection and provide the resources necessary to safeguard local ecosystems and communities from the devastating impact of cane toads.
