Camphor laurels were introduced to Australia from South East Asia in the mid 19th century and were reported as a weed by 1900. They have spread at a phenomenal rate over the past 20 years. It is estimated that over 30% of all camphor laurels in the north coast region are less than 3 metres high, or under 3 years of age (not including small seedlings).

Of serious concern to other areastext south of the region is that camphor laurels recently began setting seed on Dorrigo plateau (elevation approx. 700m) for the first time.

Camphor laurels threaten both agricultural lands and native vegetation remnants. In some areas they grow next to most fence posts, imposing significant maintenance costs to farmers. Their growth on roadsides, rail corridors, under powerlines and near other infrastructure imposes tremendous costs on Councils and public utility organisations. Due to their dense matted root system they restrict the growth of other species and commonly form monocultures or associations with other weeds such as privets (Ligustrum spp.).

Camphor laurels have destabilised many streambanks in the region due to undercutting of the shallow root system and a general lack of ground covers surrounding them. They have been found to be poisonous to rainbow fish fingerlings (Bishop 1993). As part of the recent RWAP project, the North Coast Weeds Advisory Committee produced a Camphor Laurel Kit that contains all background information, control techniques, replacement species lists, legislation etc. relevant to control of the weed.