General News
2 April, 2025
Buffel grass has the support of KAP and LNP
Bob Katter and Susan McDonald spoke about the dangers of declaring buffel grass a weed of national significance.
Two unlikely allies have thrown their support behind a “weed” that is the backbone of the Queensland cattle industry.
Bob Katter and LNP Senator Susan McDonald both believe that buffel grass – considered a weed in the Northern Territory and South Australia – should remain off limits in Queensland.
“Buffel grass was introduced in the 1920s as a productive fodder in Queensland and it did the job it was meant to do, becoming an important component of rangeland grazing,” said Senator McDonald, who comes from a long line of North West graziers.
“Declaring buffel grass a weed would be catastrophic to graziers across Australia who rely on it for crucial fodder to keep their operations going.
“It also reduces erosion and dust storms.
“There is no justification for this move and I encourage everyone affected to make their thoughts known to the federal Agriculture Minister.”
Mr Katter echoed the thoughts of upper house counterpart.
“Buffel grass wasn’t brought here by accident – it was introduced because it’s one of the best options we’ve got. It holds the soil together and keeps the cattle fed even during drought,” the Member for Kennedy said.
The veteran MP said that listing buffel grass as a weed of national significance could impose legislative restrictions, mandate removal efforts, and initiate biological control research aimed at eradication.
“Buffel grass is essential to the northern cattle industry, and to label it as a weed would be counter-intuitive, turning all of the north into a weed-infested dust bowl,” Mr Katter said.
“Talk to any northern cattle farmer and they will tell you it is not just good cattle fed – buffel grass protects soil, cools the ground, sequesters carbon, and supports native fauna.
“Its deep-rooted resilience has dramatically improved rainwater efficiency and environmental sustainability across Australia.”