Queensland Government Reviews Crocodile Management Practices

The Queensland Government is reviewing crocodile management practices, following several recent incidents.

Sustainability, Climate Change and Innovation Minister Andrew McNamara says public safety is the government’s first priority in managing crocodiles.

After meeting with senior Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) staff, the Minister, last week, instigated a month-long review into all crocodile management practices.

“I have instructed the EPA not to release any more crocodiles into the wild until the review is completed,” Mr McNamara said.

He said during the review captured crocodiles would be relocated to crocodile farms or zoos.

“The review is aimed at assessing the Agency’s practices and policies in this area, how they may have contributed to recent events and how they could be improved.

“I particularly want to ensure that our practices safeguard the public, are effective and transparent, and provide clear direction to staff to support them in doing their job safely and professionally.

“I also want to ensure that the EPA’s practices are providing a genuine conservation benefit, and that they recognise the potential for crocodiles to make a significant contribution to Queensland’s economy.

“I have directed the EPA to provide me with a progress report on this review within 14 days, and a draft manual within a month.

During this period the EPA will continue to capture and remove ‘crocodiles of concern’,” Mr McNamara said.

November 12, 2008

Media contact: Wendy Nye 3336 8004