Joint media release: New national partnership to strengthen rabbit biocontrol
The Albanese Labor Government is strengthening Australia’s efforts to manage the impacts of feral rabbits, with a new national partnership to advance the next generation of rabbit biocontrol. The Government is investing $2.6 million as part of a $4 million national partnership to deliver Phase 1 of a new program – Future-Proofing Rabbit Biocontrol The partnership brings together the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, the CSIRO, the Centre for Invasive Species Solutions, state and territory governments, and Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA).
Phase 1 will focus on identifying new rabbit haemorrhagic disease virus (RHDV) variants with potential for future use as biological control agents. It will also progress planning for the statutory approval processes required before any future release. The partnership supports delivery of Australia’s Rabbit Biocontrol Pipeline Strategy, which aims to ensure long-term, sustainable management of feral rabbits.
While current rabbit haemorrhagic disease viruses continue to suppress rabbit populations, their effectiveness declines over time as the viruses and rabbits evolve together. Continued research, monitoring and integrated pest management are essential to maintaining effective rabbit control into the future. Subject to the success of Phase 1, a second phase would further develop the biocontrol pipeline by investigating virus efficacy and epidemiology, vaccine development, risk assessment and release planning to support future regulatory approvals.
Feral rabbits impact agricultural production, native wildlife, landscapes and sites of cultural significance, which is why the Albanese Labor Government continues to support industry, state and territory governments, and landholders to improve their pest control tools. Since coming to office, the Albanese Labor Government has committed over $2 billion in additional biosecurity resourcing, with over $440 million being invested through to 2029-30 for nationally cost-shared pest and disease response programs.
In this most recent Budget, the Government committed to providing $38 million a year ongoing from 2030-31 for the Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness, plus capital funding to support the critical upgrades at the facility so it remains fit for purpose, strengthening Australia’s domestic agriculture and food security. Quotes attributable to the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Julie Collins MP: “Our Government will never be complacent about the threat of established pests and weeds, which is why we continue to invest to help protect our agricultural industries and Australia’s biodiversity.
“We know that the effectiveness of rabbit biocontrol declines over time, which is why we’re working together with state and territory governments, industry and leading researchers on future control options. “I’m pleased this new national partnership is progressing, because keeping our farmers productive and our natural environments healthy is a shared responsibility.” Quotes attributable to the Minister for Industry and Innovation and Minister for Science, Tim Ayres: “The CSIRO has played a role in some of Australia’s most successful biocontrol programs, delivering benefits for agriculture and the environment.
“Through this new partnership, we are bringing together the best of Australian science, industry expertise and government collaboration to prepare for the next generation of rabbit biocontrol. “This investment is about building capability now so Australia remains prepared for the biosecurity challenges of the future. “This sits alongside the Government’s Budget announcement of ongoing annual funding of $38 million for the Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness, on top of new funding for essential facility upgrades to protect our livestock industries, food security and build national resilience.” Quotes attributable to CISS CEO, Shauna Chadlowe: “This is collaboration at its best.
By bringing together all Australian governments, industry and CSIRO’s world-class researchers, we’re taking an important step towards future-proofing rabbit biocontrol. “CISS is proud to be leading the national coordination of this groundbreaking work that will help Australia stay ahead of one of our most destructive invasive pests.” Quotes attributable to Invasive Species Council CEO, Jack Gough: “This is a welcome investment in one of Australia's most successful invasive species control programs.
“Keeping ahead of rabbits requires ongoing innovation. This partnership will help protect our native wildlife, support farmers and ensure Australia remains a global leader in rabbit biocontrol.” Quotes attributable to CSIRO Senior Principal Research Scientist, Dr Tanja Strive: “Sustained efforts are needed to ensure we have a steady pipeline of effective biocontrol solutions to keep rabbit populations suppressed below damaging levels and mitigating the impacts of this invasive species.
“CSIRO looks forward to continuing its collaborative contributions to rabbit biocontrol.” Quotes attributable to MLA Group Manager – Animal Wellbeing and Biosecurity, Dr Michael Laurence: “Feral rabbits continue to impose costs on Australia's red meat industry and cause extensive damage to productive landscapes and native ecosystems. “This investment will help ensure we remain at the forefront of developing effective, science-based solutions to manage this destructive pest.
“MLA welcomes this partnership and is proud to contribute to collaborative research that delivers practical, long-term benefits for livestock producers, regional communities and the environment.” We acknowledge the continuous connection of First Nations Traditional Owners and Custodians to the lands, seas and waters of Australia. We recognise their care for and cultivation of Country.
We pay respect to Elders past and present, and recognise their knowledge and contribution to the productivity, innovation and sustainability of Australia’s agriculture, fisheries and forestry industries.