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Humane World for Animals Australia has welcomed a New South Wales Legislative Council Animal Welfare Committee Inquiry into the treatment of dingoes in the state’s national parks.
From Humane World for Animals Australia*
The organisation has called the inquiry a milestone in the effort to end persecution of the species, which holds significant ecological and cultural value across Australia.
The inquiry will examine the genetic status of dingoes, legislation and policy relevant to their management, the role of dingoes in ecological and cultural contexts and consider the need for incorporation of indigenous knowledge and leadership in dingo conservation.
Humane World for Animals Australia’s Wildlife Program Manager, Dr Renae Charalambous, said the inquiry marks a turning point in Australians’ relationship with dingoes.
“Historically, dingoes have faced cruel and unnecessary persecution across Australia. This inquiry is an opportunity to turn the tide on the state’s relationship with these important animals and look to modern science and cultural awareness that recognises their ecological value and their true status as a totem of indigenous culture and an icon of the Australian bush.
“We’re particularly glad that this inquiry will examine the genetic status of dingoes in New South Wales and the distinction between dingoes and wild dogs. For too long, dingoes have been trapped, poisoned, shot and otherwise vilified under a false ‘wild dog’ moniker or at the hands of industry lobbying. It’s time we saw justice for this iconic Australian species and ensure its safe future in national parks and beyond.”
Presently, dingoes across Australia are considered “pests” under biosecurity legislation and are legally trapped, poisoned and shot with the intent to prevent predation on farm animals, but while undoubtedly cruel to dingoes, these methods are also often ineffective.
Modern, humane alternatives like guardian animals and other deterrents now exist to protect livestock without killing dingoes. Deterrents are more effective than killing and benefit farmers, animals and the environment.
As an apex predator, dingoes play a valuable ecological role in helping to regulate ecosystems by naturally suppressing introduced predators such as foxes and cats.
*Humane World for Animals tackles the root causes of animal cruelty and suffering to create permanent change. With millions of supporters and work happening in over 50 countries, Humane World for Animals—formerly called Humane Society International—addresses the most deeply entrenched forms of animal cruelty and suffering. As the leading voice in the animal protection space, we work to end the cruelest practices, care for animals in crisis and build a stronger animal protection movement. Driving toward the greatest global impact, we aim to achieve the vision behind our name: a more humane world.
humaneworld.org
