The future of the platypus in Victoria is to become a little more certain following the State’s approval of a Scientific Advisory Council recommendation to formally list the platypus population as a vulnerable threatened species.
Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change, Lily D’Ambrosio said urgent action to protect the platypus would commence with an initial allocation of $250,000 to go towards restoration works at key habitat sites and a further $50,000 to be used to develop a long-term action plan to ensure the future of the unique mammal.
Ms D’Ambrosio said that in March a State-wide forum of experts would be convened to help support existing platypus conservation work and identifying new opportunities.
“The Platypus Management Plan will guide longer term investment in research and monitoring, habitat protection and restoration and population augmentation including re-populating suitable rivers and creeks and enhancing genetic diversity through translocation,” Ms D’Ambrosio said.
“Many platypus populations in Victoria intersect with Melbourne’s peri-urban areas where population growth and urban sprawl have impacted on the waterways they rely on for habitat,” she said.
“Prolonged drought in rural areas has also had an impact on their numbers.”
Ms D’Ambrosio said the platypus was listed as endangered in South Australia and had been nominated for listing in NSW and nationally.
“The platypus is one of our most loved species, known the world over as a symbol of Australia’s unique wildlife – that’s why we need to act quickly to address increasing pressure on its habitat and ensure the best outcome for this wonderful creature,” the Minister said.
