Invasive animal species of particular concern in the Somerset region include wild dogs, feral pigs, foxes, rabbits, feral deer and feral cats. Landholders have responsibilities to control restricted invasive animal species on their property under the Biosecurity Act 2014. Visit the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries website.
To report fire ants or to find out more on movement controls on fire ant carriers go to the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries website.
Council also offers pest programs to assist landholders in meeting their responsibilities.
Invasive plant species of particular concern in the Somerset region include; Honey locust, Parthenium, Fireweed, Hymenachne, Mother of millions, Annual ragweed, Giant rats tail grass, and African boxthorn. Landholders have responsibilities to control restricted invasive plant species on their property under the Biosecurity Act 2014. Further information can be found on the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries website.
Round 1 of Council’s 2025-2026 Lantana Chemical Subsidy Program is now closed. A further round may be opened in the new year depending on remaining budget allocation.
Council has developed it’s Biosecurity Plan – Invasive Plants and Animals 2020-2025(PDF, 2MB) in consultation with key stakeholders and the community. The plan is a requirement of the Biosecurity Act 2014 and sets out how Invasive Biosecurity Matter (weeds and pest animals) will be managed in the Somerset Region.