FAQs - Draft Wildlife Protection Policy
What is the intent of the Draft Wildlife Protection Policy?
The intent of the policy is to reduce the impact of invasive species on the environment, as per Biosecurity Act 2015 (NSW).
This addresses Principle 3.11 by establishing Wildlife Protection Areas (WPAs) to restrict companion animals including dogs, cats, or any other animals (on or off-leash), access in high conservation zones. This in accordance with the Companion Animals Act 1998 (NSW).
Other wildlife protection matters and strategies will be considered as part of the development the pending Biodiversity Strategy and Plan.
What is a roaming cat or dog?
Any cats or dogs, domestic, feral, or stray, found roaming in declared Wildlife Protection Areas that are not microchipped.
Where does this Policy apply?
This Policy applies to all parks and natural areas under the Council's control and addresses invasive species that threaten biosecurity in NSW and across Australia, as well as roaming cats and off-leash dogs in designated Wildlife Protection Areas.
What is an invasive species?
Invasive species are non-native species, plants, and animals, which present a threat to biosecurity, biodiversity, the environment, the economy or public health.