CISS to lead new $4 million partnership to future-proof rabbit biocontrol
CISS is proud, alongside the Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, CSIRO, state and territory governments and Meat & Livestock Australia, to lead a new $4 million national partnership to future-proof rabbit biocontrol in Australia, backed by $2.6 million in Australian Government investment.
Image: Feral rabbits are one of Australia’s most destructive invasive species.
The partnership will deliver Phase 1 of Future-Proofing Rabbit Biocontrol, a new program under Australia’s Rabbit Biocontrol Pipeline Strategy.
Feral rabbits are one of Australia’s most destructive invasive species, costing the economy around $200 million in agricultural losses every year, threatening more than 320 native species and ecological communities, and damaging areas of cultural significance. Rabbit biocontrol has been one of the country’s great conservation success stories, but its effectiveness fades over time as rabbits develop resistance to existing viruses.
CISS CEO Shauna Chadlowe said the partnership was collaboration at its best.
“By bringing together all Australian governments, industry and CSIRO’s world-class researchers, we’re taking an important step towards future-proofing rabbit biocontrol.” Ms Chadlowe said.
“CISS is proud to be leading the national coordination of this groundbreaking work that will help Australia stay ahead of one of our most destructive invasive pests.“
Phase 1 will focus on identifying the next generation of rabbit haemorrhagic disease virus (RHDV) variants and progressing the approvals needed before any future release, laying the groundwork for a second phase to come. Subject to Phase 1’s success, that second phase would investigate virus efficacy and epidemiology, vaccine development, risk assessment and release planning to support future regulatory approvals.
Supporting quotes:
Julie Collins MP, Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry:
“Our Government will never be complacent about the threat of established pests and weeds, which is why we continue to invest to help protect our agricultural industries and Australia’s biodiversity. We know that the effectiveness of rabbit biocontrol declines over time, which is why we’re working together with state and territory governments, industry and leading researchers on future control options.“
Tim Ayres, Minister for Industry and Innovation and Minister for Science:
“The CSIRO has played a role in some of Australia’s most successful biocontrol programs, delivering benefits for agriculture and the environment. Through this new partnership, we are bringing together the best of Australian science, industry expertise and government collaboration to prepare for the next generation of rabbit biocontrol.“
Dr Tanja Strive, CSIRO Senior Principal Research Scientist:
“Sustained efforts are needed to ensure we have a steady pipeline of effective biocontrol solutions to keep rabbit populations suppressed below damaging levels and mitigate the impacts of this invasive species. CSIRO looks forward to continuing its collaborative contributions to rabbit biocontrol.“
Dr Michael Laurence, MLA Group Manager – Animal Wellbeing and Biosecurity:
“Feral rabbits continue to impose costs on Australia’s red meat industry and cause extensive damage to productive landscapes and native ecosystems. This investment will help ensure we remain at the forefront of developing effective, science-based solutions to manage this destructive pest. MLA welcomes this partnership and is proud to contribute to collaborative research that delivers practical, long-term benefits for livestock producers, regional communities and the environment.”
Jack Gough, Invasive Species Council CEO:
“This is a welcome investment in one of Australia’s most successful invasive species control programs. Keeping ahead of rabbits requires ongoing innovation. This partnership will help protect our native wildlife, support farmers and ensure Australia remains a global leader in rabbit biocontrol.”