Council
25 July, 2025
Funding targets roadside weeds
MOYNE Shire Council is among 45 municipalities to receive state government funding to prepare for the upcoming fire season.
Additional funding was announced last week by Acting Minister for Local Government Melissa Horne as part of the government’s Roadside Weeds and Pests program.
Under the program, Moyne Shire is set to receive $81,712 to help manage harmful weeds and pests along rural and regional roads.
“Reducing roadside weeds and pests is vital for protecting lives and properties in the lead up to the fire season, which is why we’re helping councils to manage these invasive species,” Ms Horne said.
Councils can use the funding for a range of activities, such as treating and preventing the spread of harmful weeds including blackberry, boxthorn and serrated tussock.
Councils can also use the funding to manage rabbit populations.
Local Government Victoria and Agriculture Victoria will work closely with each council to ensure plans to tackle weeds and pests are tailored to their local area.
Invasive plant and animal species threaten native biodiversity and can have a serious negative impact on agricultural production.
Acting Minister for Agriculture Gayle Tierney said the funding would provide a vital boost for the region’s farmers.
“Through controlling the population and spread of these roadside weeds and pests, we could potentially save our farmers and economy millions of dollars each year,” she said.
Since 2017, the Labor Government has invested more than $24 million across the state to help councils manage rural roadsides.
The Victorian Budget 2025/26 will also invest $976 million in a Better Roads Blitz to fix potholes and upgrade road surfaces.
More information on the Roadside Weeds and Pests Program can be found at localgovernment.vic.gov.au.
