The Northern Territory Government has opened consultation for the Draft Saltwater Crocodile Management Program 2024-2034, which will allow for the public to have input on how crocodiles are managed in the Territory.
There are currently more than 100,000 crocodiles in the Territory. Saltwater crocodiles are a Territory icon, but also dangerous top-order predators. Co-existing with crocodiles presents challenges to the Territory community while also supporting jobs across several key industries.
The Management plan which is out for consultation now, builds on the previous saltwater crocodile management program, which includes the conservation and sustainable harvest of crocodiles and the management of risk to human safety.
More than 3000 crocodiles have been removed from the wild since 2012. Now is your chance to have a say on whether you think it should be more.
Government wants to hear from landowners, business operators and the general public.
The crocodile industry is worth at least $25 million to the Territory economy and has potential for growth. Up to 90,000 croc eggs are harvested from the wild each year. The Territory is globally renowned for its production of high quality crocodile skins.
Crocodiles are also a significant drawcard for the Territory’s tourism industry and are part of the appeal for tourists to holiday in Top End.
As with previous programs, the revised Program aims to achieve a balance between sustainable use of the species and human safety.
Visit the Have Your Say website [https://haveyoursay.nt.gov.au/management-program-for-saltwater-crocodile-in-the-nt] to view the draft document, and provide comments by 28 February 2024.
Quotes attributable to Chief Minister Eva Lawler
“When culling stopped in the Northern Territory in the 1970s we had around 3000 crocodiles. There is now estimated to be more than 100,000 crocodiles.
“We have current programs around population management, through egg collection and targeted removal and want to hear from you on whether you feel there is room for improvement.
“What this consultation work will tell us is your thoughts on how we can go about croc management, including croc culling in a safe, sustainable way.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for the Environment Kate Worden:
“The management of crocodiles is important for public safety and the continued growth of lucrative industries like croc farming and tourism.
“We have removed more than 3000 crocodiles over the past 12 years, we want to hear from you whether we should remove more.
“We will consider all submissions made during this consultation period before the final Saltwater Crocodile Management Program is released.”
Northern Territory Government
