The Draft Saltwater Crocodile Management Program aims to achieve a balance between sustainable use of the species and human safety. Photo: WA Dept of Biodiversity, Conservation & Attractions.
The Northern Territory Government has opened public consultation for input into how crocodiles are managed in the Territory.
The Draft Saltwater Crocodile Management Program 2024-2034 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.
There are an estimated 100,000 crocodiles in the Territory, a far cry from when the species was endangered after decades of hunting. Some 3000 crocodiles have been removed from the wild since 2012 as they were thought to be encroaching on human habitat or popular recreation areas. The government wants to know if the community thinks that number should be higher.
A government release describes the crocodile as a Territory icon, but recognises it as a dangerous top-order predator. It says co-existing with crocodiles presents challenges to the Territory community while also supporting jobs across several key industries.
“The crocodile industry is worth at least $25 million to the Territory economy and has potential for growth,” the release says. “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,” it says.
Therefore, it says the revised program is aiming to achieve a balance between sustainable use of the species and human safety.
Chief Minister Eva Lawler said the species had recovered from as few as 3000 wild crocodiles in the 1970s.
“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,” she said.
“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.”
Minister for the Environment Kate Worden said the management of crocodiles was 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,” she said.
“We will consider all submissions made during this consultation period before the final Saltwater Crocodile Management Program is released.”
The Territory Government welcomes input from the community including landowners, business operators and the general public on the proposed management by 28 February at this website.
