Weed Identification and Control Information

An image of someone identifying a weed using a book

Protecting the Southern Highlands from invasive weeds is a shared responsibility. Effective weed control begins with correctly identifying weeds and taking action early to prevent their spread. By understanding how weeds spread and promptly reporting new infestations, we can all play an important role in safeguarding our environment, economy and community.

Did you know that Gorse is native to Europe and was introduced to Australia during the early 1800s as a hedge and ornamental plant? Gorse is a Priority Weed that is usually confined to the cool, temperate parts of NSW, including the Wingecarribee Shire.

Stopping Weeds Early

Weeds can spread quickly and cause serious problems for our environment, economy, and community. Many spread by seeds carried on animals, wind, water,or human activity. Others spread through stems, roots, or plant fragments. The earlier we act, the easier they are to control.

Protecting Biodiversity

  • Weeds compete with native plants, reducing food and habitat for local wildlife.

  • Over time, this can lead to a decline in biodiversity and permanent changes to ecosystems.

  • Managing weeds early helps protect the balance of our natural environment.

Reducing Economic Impact

  • In waterways, weeds can block flows, worsen flooding, and damage aquatic health.

  • On farms, weeds reduce crop yields, lower pasture quality, and increase production costs.

  • Preventing spread helps protect both agricultural productivity and community wellbeing.

Easier & Cheaper Control

  • Small infestations are far easier and cheaper to treat than large ones.

  • Many weeds can form long-lasting seedbanks (sometimes 100+ years) or regrow from small fragments, making them extremely tough to eradicate onceestablished.

  • Acting early saves time, money, and effort.

 Meeting Legal Responsibilities

  • NSW has strict rules under the Biosecurity Act 2015 to prevent the spread of priority weeds.

  • Controlling weeds early helps you meet these legal obligations and avoid enforcement action.

  • Most importantly, it helps protect your land and the wider community.

 

How You Can Help Reduce the Spread of Weeds

Everyone can play a part in stopping weeds from spreading. Many weeds move around through wind, water, and animals — but people are also one of the biggest causes of spread. By taking a few simple steps, you can make a big difference.

On Your Property

  • Remove weeds early – Pull them out by hand, use tools, or apply herbicide before they set seed.
  • Dispose of weeds correctly – Most common weeds can go in the green waste bin, but avoid dropping seeds along the way. Some priority weeds must not be moved (e.g., Boneseed) — check NSW WeedWise for rules.
  • Compost wisely– Composting can be a good option but be mindful that some weeds survive the process.

When Buying Plants, Soil, or Materials

  • Research before you buy – Some garden plants are invasive. Choose native or non-invasive alternatives.
  • Check soil, mulch, and fill – Contaminated soil can bring in new weeds. Buy from trusted local suppliers.
  • Monitor new soil – Watch for weed growth for several weeks after spreading.
  • Fodder safety – Buy feed from suppliers who track its source and feed animals in one area so you can spot new weeds quickly.

Vehicles, Machinery & Equipment

  • Clean down equipment – Wash tyres, tools, and machinery after working in infested areas.
  • Use a designated wash-down area – This allows you to monitor for weeds that germinate there.
  • Follow hygiene guidelines – See DPI’s “Come Clean, Go Clean” steps for best practice.

People, Pets & Animals

  • Check clothing and pets – Seeds can hitch a ride on shoes, clothes, or fur. Remove them after visiting bushland or farms.
  • Manage animals – Contain feeding areas so you can monitor for new weeds. 
  • Be weed-wise with aquariums – Never dump aquarium plants or water into waterways. Double-bag unwanted plants and put them in your general waste bin.

 Before You Buy or Sell Plants

  • Check the NSW WeedWise list – Some plants are prohibited from sale because they are invasive.

 

   

 

 
Identify Weeds Yourself

Not sure what the plant is? Try the NSW WeedWise website or download the WeedWise app (Weeds Wise Android App or Apple Store App). It contains information on more than 325 weed species found in NSW. WeedWise is a great resource for both quick identification and learning the best ways to manage weeds on your property.

Each weed profile includes:

  • What the plant looks like

  • How it affects you, your land, or the environment

  • Where it is usually found

  • How it spreads

  • Control methods and management tips

Resources

Here is a list of helpful resources to help with weed identification, weed control, control management plans, legislation and other helpful information

Identification/control:

WeedWise

Widespread Weed Booklet(PDF, 5MB)

Prohibited Matter Booklet(PDF, 1MB)

Weeds in Fodder 3rd edition 2025(PDF, 12MB)

NSW Weed Control Handbook(PDF, 3MB)

Weed control/management:

South East Regional Strategic Weed Management Plan 2023-2027(PDF, 3MB)

Wingecarribee Shire Council Biosecurity Weed Control Program 2024-2029(PDF, 4MB)

Legislation:

Biosecurity Act 2015

Biosecurity Regulation 2017

Biosecurity Act 2015 and regulation 2017 fact sheet(PDF, 595KB)

 

Report a Priority Weed

If you think you’ve seen a Priority Weed in the Wingecarribee Shire, please let us know. Early reporting helps stop weeds before they spread. Fill out the form below!

When reporting, please include:

  • A clear photo of the plant (include flowers or seed heads if possible).

  • Location details – an address, description, or GPS coordinates.

Our Biosecurity Team will contact you to arrange an inspection and confirm the plant’s identity.

 

 

 

 

 

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