VFF WARNS DINGO LISTING COULD PUT LIVESTOCK AT RISK

The Victorian Farmers Federation has criticised a Federal Government decision to recognise Victoria’s north-west dingo population as a distinct sub-species, warning it could make it harder for farmers to protect livestock from wild dogs.

The decision clears the way for an application to have the population listed as critically endangered under federal environmental laws.

VFF Livestock Councillor Peter Star says the assessment is based on disputed science and has failed to consider the impact of wild dogs on livestock and native animals.

He says farmers in north-west Victoria are already dealing with sheep being mauled and killed, and restricting pest control could leave producers unable to protect their animals.

The VFF is calling for the assessment to be withdrawn and for landholders to be properly consulted.

Mr Star says farmers are not seeking the eradication of dingoes, but want practical control measures to manage wild dogs and protect livestock.