July 14, 2016
The State Government will extend its existing Nature Conservation Regulations for 12 months while it considers a better system to manage protected animals.
The regulations – which govern how native animals can be kept, traded or culled – haven’t been reviewed since 2004.
They are now regarded as being out of step with the rest of Australia.
Environment Minister Dr Steven Miles said today members of the public will have an opportunity to have their say on any reforms to the regulations.
“We are seeking the community’s feedback to help us improve conservation outcomes and remove unnecessary regulatory burdens,” Dr Miles said.
“The government’s continued role in protected animal management aims to reflect community interests while conserving nature.”
Dr Miles said that in the last 12 years there have been significant improvements in the understanding of protected species and management approaches.
“To reflect these advances and meet community expectations, the Department of Environment and Heritage Protection recently reviewed frameworks for protected plants, marine mammals, and crocodile management.”
Attention is now turning to native animals and birds.
A discussion paper has been developed as part of the public consultation process.
The paper outlines the current issues, trends and options for improving the management of protected animals in Queensland.
For more information and to access the discussion paper, visit the Queensland Government website.
Submissions will close at 5:00pm on Friday, July 29 and can be submitted via mail or by email.
