The National Management Group (NMG) for the National Red Witchweed Eradication Program met on 16 June 2026 and agreed that red witchweed (Striga asiatica) remains technically feasible and cost-beneficial to eradicate in Australia.
The NMG approved a Proof of Freedom Response Plan (2026–2030), which sets out the final phase of the eradication program, including surveillance to verify that the eradication efforts to date have been successful. The plan has a cost-shared budget of $670,518 and is expected to conclude in June 2030, marking the end of a 15-year national eradication effort.
The National Red Witchweed Response Program, led by the Queensland Department of Primary Industries, has made significant achievements in the eradication of the weed from Australia.
The NMG is comprised of the Queensland, New South Wales, Northern Territory and Commonwealth governments, Australian Cane Growers Council, Cattle Australia Limited, and Grain Producers Australia. Response efforts have been cost-shared by members of the NMG since 2015.
If you think you have seen red witchweed in Queensland, contact Biosecurity Queensland on 13 25 23. For elsewhere in Australia contact the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline on 1800 084 881. You can find out more about how we respond to pest and disease incidents at outbreak.gov.au.