Defend the Wild
Mr MEDDICK (Western Victoria) (15:55): (2082) My matter this afternoon is for the Minister for Environment and Climate Action, and the action I seek is for her to meet with representatives of a new initiative, Defend the Wild. I was lucky enough to attend the launch of Defend the Wild last week, which is a new initiative supported by vets, researchers, wildlife experts, rescuers, wildlife carers, biologists, wildlife photographers, Indigenous community members, wildlife shelters, animal protection organisations and environmental organisations, all coming together for a common goal. United in this common goal, Defend the Wild has formed because for too long the widespread suffering of wildlife in Australia has gone unseen and unheard. Despite being listed as protected, native animals are still killed for pet food, for recreation, to make way for grazing animals, for leather and skins, for cosmetic products and more. Their suffering is exacerbated by weak wildlife protection laws. Their habitat continues to be destroyed.
Defend the Wild will educate the public on issues affecting wildlife, including the climate emergency, habitat destruction, kangaroo shooting, dingo killing, emu farming, crocodile farming, duck shooting, agricultural netting and fencing, and ocean destruction. Importantly, they will also offer solutions and share the hope that together we can restore the health of our ecosystems, fight the extinction crisis and preserve the wild places left in our country. They will also invite brands, businesses and individuals to sign up to a wildlife protection commitment and take practical steps to reduce their impact on our native animals, offering a kinder, more sustainable solution. I hope that the minister will meet with representatives of Defend the Wild, hear more about their important work and discuss the way the Victorian government can support this vital project.