Tuesday, 28 October 2025

 Georgie PURCELL (Northern Victoria) (12:23): My question is for the minister representing the Minister for Environment. In 2024 the government allocated over $2.5 million to trial non-lethal control methods to manage dingoes in north-west Victoria. Big Desert dingoes are a genetically distinct and isolated population, with only around 40 remaining in the wild. Estimates indicate the dingoes in the north-west of the state are at risk of extinction if threats to the population are not addressed. For several years traditional owner groups across Victoria have voiced their concern, urging the government to protect this culturally significant species. In addition to their cultural value, dingoes play a crucial role in ecosystems as apex predators. Without them we will see catastrophic consequences for the entire environment. Can the minister outline what has been achieved with this funding and identify where and when the trials are taking place?

 Ingrid STITT (Western Metropolitan – Minister for Mental Health, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Multicultural Affairs) (12:24): I thank Ms Purcell for her ongoing interest in this issue. This matter will be referred to Minister Dimopoulos, the Minister for Environment, for a response.

 Georgie PURCELL (Northern Victoria) (12:24): Thank you, Minister, for referring that on. The creation of three new national parks in Victoria covering over 130,000 hectares has been celebrated as a win for conservation, yet it raises some serious concerns for wildlife protection. Seasonal hunting is already planned within these parks, and the dingo unprotection order remains in effect in the eastern parts of the state. Given this, can the minister advise whether dingoes will still be permitted to be killed within or around these new national parks?

 Gayle TIERNEY (Western Victoria – Minister for Skills and TAFE, Minister for Water) (12:24): Again I thank Ms Purcell for her ongoing interest in these issues. I am directing her supplementary to the Minister for Environment, and I am sure that he will respond to her, consistent with the standing orders.