The government is proposing changes to the Biosecurity Act that could affect how we manage pests in our region. The process for approving and updating plans may become simpler and faster, making it easier to respond to new infestations, emerging species, or new control methods.

These changes are expected to be introduced or progress through Parliament in 2026, potentially taking effect in 2027 or soon after. Horizons is working alongside the Ministry for Primary Industries, where possible, to understand what the changes could mean for our region.

The Government has stated that uncertainty about timing or details is not a reason to delay current RPMP reviews. Until any new legislative changes come into effect, the current National Policy Direction on Pest Management NPD (2015) and the Biosecurity Act 1993 continue to apply.

The Government is proposing changes to the local government system, including potential approaches to local government reform and reorganisation. While no decisions have been made, we know the services regional councils provide will continue to be delivered in the short-term and will still be required into the future.

The government has also proposed a rates cap. Again, no decisions have yet been made. If this proposal is progressed, councils will not be able to increase rates beyond the upper end unless they have permission. If the community sought an increase in the level of service under the next RPMP, this may be difficult to fund.