Media Release: Clancy welcomes Federal investment in next-generation rabbit biocontrol

Member for Albury Justin Clancy has welcomed the Federal Government's investment in the next generation of rabbit biocontrol research, describing it as an important step forward in protecting agriculture, regional communities and the environment.

The announcement follows Mr Clancy's advocacy earlier this year, including a Notice of Motion in the NSW Parliament calling for Commonwealth funding for the Rabbit Biocontrol Pipeline and a Ministerial Representation urging the NSW Government to advocate for Federal investment.

Mr Clancy said the funding was welcome recognition of the growing impact of feral rabbits across regional Australia.

"Feral rabbits remain one of Australia's most destructive invasive species, causing significant damage to agriculture, native vegetation and biodiversity across regional New South Wales," Mr Clancy said.

"In March I called on the NSW Parliament to support Commonwealth funding for the Rabbit Biocontrol Pipeline because existing biological controls are becoming less effective and we need to invest in the next generation of solutions."

"I also wrote to the NSW Minister for Agriculture seeking greater support for landholders and stronger advocacy to the Commonwealth."

Mr Clancy said he had today received a response from the Minister confirming the NSW Government had written to the Federal Minister supporting the development of new rabbit biocontrol technologies and the Rabbit Biocontrol Pipeline.

"I'm pleased to now see the Commonwealth respond with this important investment."

"Good biosecurity isn't achieved through a single program or a single level of government. It requires cooperation, long-term thinking and investment in both immediate control measures and future technologies."

Former Greater Hume Mayor Heather Wilton, who first raised the issue with Mr Clancy earlier this year and joined him in advocating for greater action, welcomed the announcement.

"This is really encouraging news and a very good start," Ms Wilton said.

"When I spoke with Justin earlier this year my concern was that rabbit numbers were increasing again and that landholders couldn't keep managing the problem on their own. It's pleasing to see governments backing the science and investing in the next generation of rabbit control."

"Rabbit management has to be an ongoing commitment. This investment is an important first step, but we'll need continued research and long-term support if we're going to stay ahead of the problem."

Mr Clancy said Ms Wilton's comments reflected what he had been hearing from landholders across the region.

"Heather's advocacy helped bring local experience to this discussion. It's a reminder that good policy starts by listening to the people living with these issues every day."

"This funding is an important milestone, but biosecurity doesn't stop here. We need to continue investing in research while supporting landholders with practical on-ground control measures such as baiting, trapping and coordinated regional programs."

Mr Clancy said the Federal announcement also complements the NSW Liberal and Nationals' commitment to invest $300 million in a comprehensive invasive species and biosecurity program. The plan includes increased support for baiting, trapping and aerial control, stronger coordination across public and private land, permanent regional rapid response teams, and further investment in biological and other novel control methods.

"This is exactly the balanced approach we need. Farmers need practical support today through baiting, trapping and coordinated control programs, while researchers develop the biological tools we'll need tomorrow."

"My focus has always been on practical biosecurity. Whether it's rabbits, feral pigs, feral deer or other invasive species, regional communities need governments to work together and back long-term solutions."

"This announcement is welcome news, and I'll continue advocating for practical measures that protect our farmers, strengthen biosecurity and preserve our natural environment for future generations."