August 26, 2011
A motion highlighting the need for a nationally consistent approach to effective wild dog control has been passed by Federal Parliament.
The motion put forward by The Nationals Member for Gippsland Darren Chester also highlighted the need for ongoing Commonwealth funding to support research and on the ground work to reduce the impact of wild dogs.
Mr Chester said he was pleased the motion had received bipartisan support on the floor of Federal Parliament but it was only a small step towards providing more help for farmers who have been suffering stock losses as a result of wild dogs.
“There is an increasing number of farmers in Gippsland, particularly the eastern region that are questioning their long-term viability due to the impacts that wild dogs and other feral animals are having on their stock numbers,” Mr Chester said.
“I put forward the motion so that their ongoing battle would be highlighted to the government and it was pleasing to see it receive support.
“But the fine words need to be turned into action and I believe the Federal Government should do more to support the State Government’s current campaign to reduce the impact of wild dogs.”
The Victorian Coalition Government has committed to introducing aerial baiting and a bounty system, in conjunction with trapping and other measures, to reduce wild dog numbers. The aerial baiting program will begin in May 2012 with local wild dog committees to be restructured in the meantime to allow for greater local input and the development of local area plans.
“There are many local farmers deeply concerned by the ongoing damage caused by wild dogs,” Mr Chester said.
“I know of some that are contemplating whether to continue farming in some areas because they are unable to continue suffering such severe stock losses.
“With a solid commitment by the Victorian Coalition Government, any Federal Government assistance to implement new measures to control wild dogs would increase the effectiveness of the program.”