Dingo Policy
Preamble
The Department recognises that the dingo is an important component of natural ecosystems. However, the Department acknowledges that dingoes can be a significant predator of livestock. Thus, the Department’s dingo and feral dog control program will provide a level of protection against economic loss to landholders, while remaining consistent with the objective of maintaining wild populations of the dingo.
Policy
The Department of Natural Resources, Environment, The Arts and Sport will prioritise the conservation and preservation of natural populations of dingoes. The management of dingoes by The Department will endeavour to:
- Maintain viable populations of dingoes in their natural habitat.
- Promote the importance of dingoes as a significant predator and environmental regulator.
- Encourage the local community to interact ethically and responsibly with dingoes.
- Acknowledge the cultural value of dingoes.
- Develop and support research programs which focus on better understanding the behaviour, ecology and biology of dingoes to improve our management of this species, especially in situations where there is an adverse interaction with people.
- Encourage pastoralists and rural landholders that are experiencing livestock damage by dingoes to apply for a relevant permit and undertake humane control through the use of dog proof fencing, shooting or trapping.
- Necessitate consultation and approvals from local Aboriginal communities in areas where dingo management is required on Aboriginal lands.
- Collaborate with other Government agencies, non-Government organisations, business, industry and the community to pursue alternative solutions to minimise adverse interactions with dingoes.