R&D funds for new wild dog control methods

The McGowan Government is driving research into new methods of controlling wild dogs, today releasing details of an $800,000 WA Wild Dog Action Plan R&D Fund.
  • Details of $800,000 WA Wild Dog Action Plan R&D Fund released
  • Grants available to research new solutions to minimise the threat of wild dogs

The McGowan Government is driving research into new methods of controlling wild dogs, today releasing details of an $800,000 WA Wild Dog Action Plan R&D Fund.

The initiative is part of the McGowan Government's $18.6 million Western Australian Wild Dog Action Plan, with a top-up from the Commonwealth via Federal Agricultural Competitiveness White Paper funding.

Half the total funds ($400,000) will go to research and development grants to explore new solutions to minimise the impact of wild dogs on landholder's livelihoods, estimated to cost rangelands sheep and goat production $25 million per annum.

Up to $150,000 each is available to applicant groups to research or develop innovative tools and technologies that will improve the detection, reporting, control and management of wild dogs.

The other half of the funds have been directed to undertake social and ecological assessments of wild dog management techniques, such as fencing, methods of bait delivery and wild dog deterrents, to enhance control efforts.

For more information and to make an application for a WA Wild Dog Action Plan R&D Grant, visit https://www.agric.wa.gov.au/wilddogfund

Comments attributed to Agriculture and Food Minister Alannah MacTiernan:

"The WA Wild Dog Action Plan R&D Fund is another demonstration of our commitment to supporting farmers as they fight to protect their livestock from the scourge of wild dogs.

"We need to ensure the methods we use to control wild dogs are the most effective and suitable for Western Australian farmers and pastoralists.

"We want to see researchers join with Recognised Biosecurity Groups to develop their proposals, drawing on landholders' firsthand knowledge and experience with the problem and ensure its suitability 'on the ground'.

"This is just one initiative underway as part of the WA Wild Dog Action Plan, which also includes the employment of additional doggers, funds for cell fencing pilot trials in the rangelands and sterilising dogs in remote communities."

Minister's office - 6552 6200