28 January 2010
DAFF10/377B

Australia’s most damaging vertebrate pests, including camels, foxes and wild dogs, will be targeted by 12 new Rudd Government projects around the country.

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Tony Burke announced the projects will receive more than $629,700 through the Australian Pest Animal Management Program (APAMP), administered by the Bureau of Rural Sciences (BRS).

Mr Burke said pests such as rabbits, foxes and feral pigs have a major impact on agricultural production each year.

“Feral animals cost Australia more than $743 million a year in lost agricultural production, according to the Invasive Animals Cooperative Research Centre,” Mr Burke said.

“That is why the Rudd Government will continue to more effectively manage existing pest animals and work to prevent new pest animals from becoming established.

Projects include assessing and promoting improved management approaches for wild dogs throughout Australia in order to reduce stock losses and using remote sound recorders to detect starling calls to prevent the spread of this major bird pest into Western Australia by ensuring their early detection and management.

“Feral pests are not just an irritation for farmers, they sabotage farm businesses and the livelihood of Australian farmers,” Mr Burke said.

“In June 2009, the Rudd Government announced $57.5 million for 57 feral animal control projects across Australia under Caring for our Country.

“Every investment in controlling pests makes farmers’ lives easier, improves the environment and is a direct investment in our national economy.”