Invasive pest animals are non-native (introduced) species that are, or have the potential to become, established in the wild through escape from captivity, deliberate or accidental release and accidental or illegal importation.

Invasive animals threaten and impact Victorian farms, parks and forests, waterways, biodiversity and catchment assets. Their presence impacts widely on our environment and economy and the animals themselves may indirectly pose threats to human health, amenities and cause a number of social issues.

The problems caused by invasive animals vary but include; competing with native wildlife for food and habitat; preying on livestock and wildlife; grazing pressure on pastures, crops and native plant communities. They may also spread weeds, contribute to erosion, waterway degradation and become nuisances to human activities which may, in turn, be responsible for stress in rural communities. Human and animal diseases may also be introduced and spread through these animals.

Established invasive animals

‘Established invasive animals’ are, by definition of the Catchment and Land Protection Act (1994) (CaLP Act), widespread, established and beyond eradication from the whole of Victoria. Established invasive animals include foxes, rabbits, feral pigs and feral goats and their effect may be seen on public and private land across the state. Under the CaLP Act, all landowners have a legal duty to prevent the spread of, and as far as possible eradicate, established pest animals. Recommended management of established invasive animals is based on the approach that the most cost-effect control strategy is to manage and minimise their impact on selected high-value agricultural and environmental assets. Read more about Invasive Animal Management.

New threats from high-risk invasive animals

‘High-risk invasive animals’ are invasive animals not considered to be established in the wild in Victoria. If these high-risk species were allowed to establish in the state, they would present a threat to our economy, environment and social values. The most cost-effective management of these high-risk invasive animals is to prevent their entry into Victoria, followed by early intervention to prevent their establishment. DPI is the lead agency for the control of these pest animals within Victoria. Read more about High-Risk Invasive Animals.