The Queensland Government has today announced two new intiatives which are designed to to empower landholders and local councils in the fight against wild dogs.

Speaking in Charleville today,  Queensland agriculture minister John McVeigh said landholders in the State will be able to 1080 baits through local rural supply stores. Previously, under rules introduced by the former Labor government, human-grade meat was required to be used for baits.

The LNP Government has also announced a new pilot program for councils which aims to achieve greater compliance in pest animal control.

“As of today, licensed retailers can apply to be approved to supply 1080 to landholders with a Bait User Permit, which landholders can now apply for from Biosecurity Queensland,” Mr McVeigh said.

“Under (the previous Labor Government), only public sector employees accredited by Queensland Health could provide 1080 baits to rural landholders.

“The LNP is giving landholders more flexibility to control wild dogs on their properties and in coming weeks, the new system will also allow contractors to apply to become approved 1080 providers.”

Mr McVeigh said Murweh and Paroo Shire Councils, and the Somerset Regional Council would also participate in a Wild Dog Compliance Pilot Project.

“Landholders have told me they’re sick of seeing their hard work go down the drain because of others who refuse to take any action to control wild dogs,” Mr McVeigh said.

“This pilot project will assist local councils to investigate complaints and to take action against landholders who are not actively controlling wild dogs.”

Mr McVeigh said the move to supply 1080 baits through rural stores would start in the Murweh Shire.

Source: Qld Govt