The Queensland Government is investing $2 million in targeted action to tackle the state’s escalating feral pig problem, easing the burden on regional communities and supporting the agricultural sector.
Following years of limited progress, feral pig populations have exploded across Queensland, causing widespread damage to crops, natural ecosystems and waterways. In 2023 alone, ABARES reported $95 million in production losses and control costs due to feral pigs in Queensland.
The new investment includes $1 million to develop a Queensland Feral Pig Action Plan, designed in consultation with key stakeholders and tailored to meet the unique challenges of different regions. The remaining $1 million will support the development of innovative control methods over the next three years.
This initiative adds to the government’s broader $50 million, four-year commitment to strengthening biosecurity across the state.
Regional feral pig coordinators, funded by the state government, are already on the ground in six key areas—Cairns, Longreach, Mareeba, Townsville, Mt Isa, and more—working alongside landholders, local councils, and agencies on coordinated control measures including baiting, trapping and aerial shooting.
Minister for Primary Industries Tony Perrett said reducing feral pig numbers would take investment, innovation and teamwork.
“We need to make a dent in feral pig populations, not only to protect primary production but to mitigate biosecurity risks,” Minister Perrett said.
“Feral pigs cost primary producers millions of dollars every year.
“We know the only way to get on top of this growing problem is to have a coordinated plan with everyone from landholders to the Government working together.
“Whether you’re a grazier out west, a sugarcane farmer up north, a strawberry grower on the granite belt, a natural resource manager in the Wet Tropics, a traditional owner on the Cape, or part of a local, state, or Commonwealth government agency—your ideas, expertise, and action are essential.”
Publishers Indemnity. Any individual or entity that places advertising, supplies copy material, or submits editorial content to Core Life Publishing agrees and undertakes to ensure that all such material:- Does not infringe upon any copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property rights;- Is free from any content that could be considered defamatory, libelous, or slanderous;- Does not infringe upon any rights related to privacy or breach of confidence;- Contains no obscene, indecent, or otherwise unlawful material;- Complies fully with the Trade Practices Act and all other applicable laws, regulations, or statutes.Furthermore, by submitting or placing such material, these individuals or entities agree to indemnify and hold harmless the publisher, Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd, and/or its agents from and against any and all investigations, claims, demands, liabilities, damages, costs, or judgments arising out of or in connection with the material provided. All material is believed to be accurate at the time of printing and remains the copyright of Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd.
© 2024 Mackay and Whitsunday Life Pty Ltd.
