NWDAP responds to recent calls to phase out 1080 baiting

National Wild Dog Action Plan stakeholders responded swiftly this month to comments made by Senator Derryn Hinch in Parliament, calling for the Federal Government to regulate the orderly phase-out of 1080, Australia’s most effective and target-specific pest predator control tool.

The Leader of the Justice Party made allegations that 1080 use in Australia is poorly regulated and poses an unacceptable risk to public health, domestic pets and the environment.

National Wild Dog Action Plan’ Coordination Committee Chair Geoff Power responded with scientifically supported evidence that demonstrates 1080 is biodegradable and poses no risk to humans and native species at the recommended dose rates for predator control.

In background material, provided to Senator Hinch, Mr Power also emphasized that 1080 baiting programs are highly regulated, monitored and recorded and the result of extensive community planning and engagement.

Mr Power called on Senator Hinch to reconsider his value judgment “that places the welfare of feral animals over that of the survival of native animals and livestock, the protection of Australia’s unique environment and the financial well-being of farmers and the Australian economy”.

“This is certainly not the position of the participants of the National Wild Dog Action Plan and unlikely to be for most Australians,” he said.

National Wild Dog Action Plan stakeholders are urged to contact their local Member for Parliament, peak industry bodies and relevant interest groups to support the ongoing environmentally and socially responsible use of 1080 for the preservation of Australia’s agricultural industries, native species and environment.

Reference material: View the Letter to Senator Hinch 

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