Invasive animals

Invasive animals can pose a serious threat to biodiversity and primary production. They contribute to the loss of native animals and can significantly disturb native vegetation, encouraging the spread of weeds.

Legislation

The Catchment and Land Protection Act 1994 declares certain species to be established pest animals in Victoria. These include foxes, rabbits, feral pigs, feral goats and wild dogs.

Projects

• Southern Ark, Glenelg Ark and Grampians Ark support the recovery of small mammals, reptiles and birds through landscape-scale, ongoing fox control.
• Mallee Bounce Back protects the vulnerable Mallee woodlands through rabbit control.
• The Good Neighbour Program acknowledges that pest animals move freely between public and private land and encourages cooperation between government and other landholders to control pest animals on the boundary between public and private land.
• Bush Guardians provides grants to support community groups that are working with government to protect public land.

Additional information

Some exotic animals, particularly reptiles and amphibians, are illegal to import, keep, breed and trade in Victoria.  To import, keep or sell a pest animal you must apply for a pest animal permit.  

For information on cats visit the Cats and Wildlife page.