Threat abatement plan for ecosystem degradation, habitat loss and species decline due to invasion of northern Australia by introduced gamba grass, para grass, olive hymenachne, mission grass and annual mission grass

The 2026 plan replaces the 2021 version and addresses the 5 introduced and highly invasive grasses: gamba grass (Andropogon gayanus); para grass (Urochloa mutica); olive hymenachne (Hymenachne amplexicaulis); mission grass (Pennisetum polystachion); and annual mission grass (Pennisetum pedicellatum). These invasive grasses are spreading across northern Australia. Para grass and hymenachne are also in New South Wales.

The plan aims to:

• reduce further spread of the invasive grasses
• protect areas of high biodiversity value and cultural significance at risk of invasion
• manage areas of high biodiversity value and cultural significance which are already impacted.

The plan will help guide Australia’s response to the impacts of these invasive grass species on biodiversity. It outlines the actions needed to ensure the survival of native species and ecological communities threatened by these invasive grasses.