Farmers across the Western Plains are set to benefit from a major boost to the state’s biosecurity system, with the NSW Government unveiling a comprehensive new plan to better protect agriculture, industry and the environment from pests, weeds and diseases.

The NSW Biosecurity Action Plan - backed by a $1.05 billion budget - outlines a series of reforms designed to strengthen surveillance, compliance and emergency responses.

For producers on the Western Plains, where feral pigs, invasive weeds and emerging pests are a constant battle, the plan promises stronger frontline protection and more resources on the ground.

“Farmers are on the front line of the fight against an explosion of pests and diseases that could not just cost us billions, but change our very way of life,” said NSW Farmers President Xavier Martin.

“You can have all the plans in the world, but if you don’t fund them … how can anyone expect anything to be achieved?”

The new plan builds on earlier commitments, including the appointment of the state’s first independent Biosecurity Commissioner and feral pig coordinator, along with $40.7 million in four-year funding for the Weeds Action Program.

NSW Farmers President Xavier Martin welcomed news of extra funding to back up the promises from the government about enhanced biosecurity measures.

Importantly, it sets out a framework to coordinate agencies and provide faster responses to emerging threats—something that will directly benefit rural communities that often feel the brunt of infestations.

Agriculture Minister Tara Moriarty said the government was determined to deliver a world-leading biosecurity system.

“Biosecurity is a Minns Government priority,” she said.

“We are now releasing this Biosecurity Action Plan to further evolve the state’s system to become the best available and leading the way not just in Australia but globally.”

Key measures include:

• Training 200 additional staff to respond to biosecurity emergencies.

• Enhancing diagnostic and research capacity to detect and manage threats earlier.

• Establishing a State Biosecurity Committee to improve cross-agency collaboration.

• Launching a statewide invasive species response program, prioritising risks at a landscape scale.

For Western Plains farmers, where long distances and harsh conditions make managing pests and weeds especially difficult, the plan’s commitment to “on-the-ground outcomes” is welcome.

Mr Martin stressed that farmers need to see tangible results.

“We simply cannot compromise on biosecurity, and it’s good to see our government recognise that,” he said.

With billions of dollars in agricultural production at stake, and rural communities relying on healthy landscapes to sustain both livelihoods and lifestyles, the Biosecurity Action Plan represents a significant step forward.

If the investment and promises translate into real action, farmers across the Western Plains will be better placed to manage threats, reduce losses, and build resilience for the future.