Update: Draft Wildlife Policy Review

Thank you to everyone who provided feedback on the Draft Wildlife Protection Policy. Your input helps us to understand areas of most interest and importance to you, and your time in responding is greatly appreciated.

During the exhibition period of the policy, we received:

• 665 visits to the webpage on Join the Conversation
• 304 downloads of the draft policy
• 68 survey submissions and 290 email responses.

Of those who participated in the survey, 79% of respondents were either very unhappy or unhappy with the policy exhibited. Of the remaining participants, 9% were happy or very happy, and 12% responded as neutral.

Key feedback we received included:

• welfare of shorebirds
• review of terminology and definitions used
• increased public education of wildlife protection areas
• perception of dedicated areas for dogs
• species risk assessments.

Some of the feedback received highlighted the need for clearer articulation of the policy’s intent and its practical application. In response, the draft policy has been updated to further strengthen and clarify these aspects.

The project team have also engaged directly with our Environment and Sustainability Reference Group to provide this information and address feedback raised through the consultation period.

The revised/updated policy will be included in the Infrastructure Committee Meeting agenda on 1 December for consideration and adoption.

We will keep interested community members updated on progress.

Need more information? See our FAQs here or contact the Parks and Natural Areas Team at pestspecies@ssc.nsw.gov.au.