Farmers across the Hills and Fleurieu region will soon benefit from additional targeted rabbit control efforts, thanks to a $760K investment from the state government’s Drought Support Package.

Wild rabbits wreak havoc on crops, pastures, and native vegetation, leading to an estimated $197 million in agricultural losses annually. 

Their burrowing activity causes soil erosion, land degradation and infrastructure damage, further impacting productivity. Due to drought and limited feed availability, rabbit breeding has slowed, making now a prime time to act.

To support primary producers in managing feral rabbits, the Department for Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA) is leading an initiative in partnership with regional landscape boards, the National Rabbit Coordinator, and the Foundation for Rabbit Free Australia.

Eligible farmers in the Hills and Fleurieu region will have access to a range of control tools, including:

• Free warren ripping.

• Free 1080 oat bait (for properties larger than five hectares).

PIRSA and Landscapes Hills and Fleurieu want to hear from farmers about their experiences with feral rabbits at a series of free regional barbecues in July at Parawa, Strathalbyn and Mount Torrens. 

At these barbecues PIRSA will outline the eligibility criteria to access support and will answer questions about the program.

• Parawa –Thursday 17 July - 6pm

• Strathalbyn – Tuesday 22 July - 6pm

• Mount Torrens – Wednesday 23 July - 6pm

This program is part of the broader $73 million State Government drought assistance package, to equip farmers with resources to combat the environmental and financial challenges caused by ongoing dry conditions.

PIRSA and Landscapes Hills and Fleurieu are encouraging eligible farmers to take advantage of these measures to mitigate rabbit populations as they rebound following winter rains.

Bookings are essential for catering purposes and can be made online.