Wild Dog Management Strategic Response
2013–2018 (2014 Revision)
Document number: IS SR01
Department of Agriculture and Food
Invasive Species Program
Supporting your success
DAFWA Wild Dog Management Strategic Response 2013-18
DAFWA Wild Dog Management Strategic Response 2013-18
Preface
The Department of Agriculture and Food, Western Australia (DAFWA) has had a long and varied
involvement with wild dog management. A staff survey in 2012 showed there was uncertainty
and differences as to what staff considered our role should be going into the future. A two-day
workshop was held in March 2013 to clarify our future role and the workshop’s outcomes have
helped shape this Wild Dog Management Strategic Response.
This Strategic Response provides clear direction and a vision for DAFWA staff involved in wild
dog management, including both in our own activities and in the way that we partner with others
to control the impact of wild dogs in Western Australia.
The Response defines six outcomes, and associated strategies and actions, to assist DAFWA in
achieving its vision of minimising the impact of wild dogs on Western Australia’s agricultural and
pastoral industries. The document has been revised to reflect current management of wild dog
impacts.
It is a part of the framework to manage wild dogs in Western Australia, which includes
documents developed nationally, at the state and DAFWA level, and regionally. At the national
level, the National Wild Dog Action Plan has been developed. At the state level, the Western
Australian Wild Dog Management Strategy 2005 still informs initiatives throughout the state.
DAFWA is preparing a Wild Dog Impact Management Policy. This policy will clarify DAFWA’s
preferred approach to the management of the impacts of wild dogs on agricultural and pastoral
industries. The final draft of the policy is expected at the end of May 2014. The policy will be
consistent with the initiatives and direction set out in this strategic response.
Regionally, the framework identifies the preparation of regional strategies and plans. DAFWA
expects that landholders and industry will take the lead in the development of these strategies
and plans. This is consistent with the community coordinated approach for managing
established declared pests in Western Australia.
Achieving the vision of minimising impacts of wild dogs on agricultural and pastoral industries
requires coherent and strategic coordination at a state level. DAFWA considers that the
establishment of an industry-led steering committee will enable effective coordinated efforts to
accurately quantify, and manage, the impacts of wild dogs in Western Australia. The opportunity
to develop a State Wild Dog Management Policy and to revise the existing State Strategy should
be a priority for this committee.
The DAFWA Wild Dog Management Strategic Response is an integral part of the approach to
managing the impact of wild dogs in Western Australia. With consistent engagement and
commitment from stakeholders, the DAFWA Wild Dog Management Strategic Response will
provide effective leadership with partner organisations to minimise the impact of wild dogs on
livestock industries in Western Australia.
Viv Read
DIRECTOR
INVASIVE SPECIES
June 2014
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DAFWA Wild Dog Management Strategic Response 2013-18
Table of Contents
Preface
1
Table of Contents
3
1.
Introduction
4
1.1
Context and Scope
4
1.2
Legislative context
5
1.3
DAFWA Wild Dog Management Framework
5
1.4
Principles for management
7
Strategic approach
8
2.1
Vision and outcomes
8
2.2
Outcomes and strategies
8
2.
2.2.1 Industry has the skills to undertake wild dog management
8
2.2.2 Current best practice for wild dog management is adopted
8
2.2.3 Coordinated planning at regional and state level maximises effectiveness of wild dog
management
9
2.2.4 Wild dog management activities comply with statutory obligations
9
2.2.5 New research and developing technologies continue to improve knowledge and
management of wild dogs
9
2.2.6 The benefits of investment in wild dog management in Western Australia are
monitored and evaluated
10
3.
Delivery framework
11
4.
Roles and responsibilities
20
4.1
DAFWA
20
4.2
Department of Parks and Wildlife (DPaW)
20
4.3
Department of Lands (DoL)
20
4.4
Land managers, owners and occupiers
20
4.5
Industry bodies
21
5.
Evaluation
21
6.
References
22
23
Abbreviations
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DAFWA Wild Dog Management Strategic Response 2013-18
1.
Introduction
1.1
Context and scope
DAFWA recognises that wild dogs (free-living domestic dogs, dingoes and dingo-dog hybrids)
are a significant threat to both pastoral and agricultural livestock enterprises. It recognises the
stress and potential threat to regional and rural communities caused by wild dogs. DAFWA also
recognises the Dingo (Canis lupus dingo) as being a genetically discrete subspecies and an
apex predator within the natural environment.
Landholders are responsible for control of wild dogs, as with all declared pests under the
Biosecurity and Agricultural Management Act 2007 (BAM Act). DAFWA is not a landholder but
does adopt shared responsibility for their control.
This Strategic Response provides clear direction for DAFWA staff involved in wild dog
management, including both in our own activities and in the way that we partner with others to
control the impact of wild dogs in Western Australia.
DAFWA has adopted the ‘Generalised invasion Curve’ (Figure 1) to provide direction for its role
in response to declared pests under the BAM Act. In pastoral areas, wild dogs are well
established and the most appropriate response is to minimise their impact on livestock. In
agricultural areas adjacent to the rangelands, the response is containment (that is, contain to
prevent incursions of wild dogs into agricultural areas). Where wild dogs occur in isolation, the
response is eradication. Prevention of incursions and eradication are key areas for DAFWA
involvement.
Figure 1: The Generalised invasion curve
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DAFWA Wild Dog Management Strategic Response 2013-18
1.2
Legislative context
In Western Australia, the BAM Act requires all land owners (public and private land) to control
wild dogs where they occur and threaten livestock industries or people.
The BAM Act enables the formation of Recognised Biosecurity Groups (RBGs) for the control of
Declared Pests. The intent of RBGs is to provide a coordinated community approach to declared
pest control at a landscape scale. RBGs are there to support individual landowner control
efforts, not to replace their responsibilities. Funds for management of declared pests are raised
through rates collected from landholders. These funds, matched by government funding, are
available to RBGs to coordinate control of declared pests such as wild dogs.
Other State legislation relevant to wild dog management includes:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Animal Welfare Act 2002
Biological Control Act 1986
Firearms Act 1973
Health Act 1911
Occupational Safety and Health Act 1984
Poisons Act 1964
Wildlife Conservation Act 1950
Commonwealth legislation that is relevant includes:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
1.3
Animal Welfare Act 2004
Civil Aviation Regulations 1988
Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999
Exotic Animal Disease Control Amendment Act 1995
Exotic Disease Control Act 1989.
DAFWA Wild Dog Management framework
The DAFWA Wild Dog Management Strategic Response (that is, this document) is one part of
DAFWA’s framework for its role in wild dog management. Figure 2 shows the structure of the
framework.
The DAFWA Wild Dog Impact Management Policy will provide direction and clarification for
DAFWA’s position on the management of wild dog impacts on agricultural and pastoral
industries in Western Australia. The policy will be consistent with this strategic response.
DAFWA’s policy and strategic response are informed by national and state documents.
Nationally, the National Wild Dog Action Plan identifies four areas for action:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Leadership and good governance;
People;
Tools and methods; and
Monitor, evaluate and report.
The National Model Code of Practice (CoP) for the Humane Control of Wild Dogs (September,
2012) has been endorsed at the national level by the Vertebrate Pest Committee (VPC).The
document encompasses aspects of controlling wild dogs and includes best practice principles,
relevant biological information, guidance on choosing the most humane and appropriate control
technique, and guidance on effective implementation of management programs. Adoption of the
CoP in Western Australia provides a defence under the Animal Welfare Act 2002 against claims
of animal harm due to control operations.
At the State level, the Western Australia Wild Dog Management Best Practice Manual (May,
2006) is the principal souce of best practice guidance for wild dog impact management in
Western Australia. It is updated as new information and knowledge becomes available. For
example, new control methods developed through the Invasive Animals Cooperative Research
Centre (IA CRC) are included as they become available.
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DAFWA Wild Dog Management Strategic Response 2013-18
The Wild Dog Management Framework also makes provision for delivery of control operations
through DAFWA-developed Regional Strategies and community-developed regional and local
wild dog plans. DAFWA’s policy and strategic response are available to inform these strategies
and plans.
Figure 2: DAFWA’s Wild Dog Management Framework
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DAFWA Wild Dog Management Strategic Response 2013-18
1.4
Principles for management
The response strategy is based on the following set of principles for management.
Issues
Principles
Primary responsibility
All land managers (public and private) are responsible for
the control of wild dogs on their land.
Partnership
arrangements
Negotiated arrangements for active partnerships between
land managers, local communities, industry groups, State
Government agencies and local governments are required
for effective pest management.
Landscape-scale
approach
Wild dog management is most effective when planned and
implemented at a landscape scale, with consideration of
multiple landscape values and uses.
Values
Differing cultural and ecological values across the
landscape are recognised and respected.
Cross-tenure
management
Management responses are to be applied across differing
land tenure.
Management Response
Management response to wild dog impacts will be
according to the ‘generalised invasion curve’ approach,
such that there is prevention where dogs are not yet
established, containment where they are an emerging
threat, and management to protect livestock assets or
social values where they are well established.
Planning
Wild dog management is based on coordinated planning for
individual properties and across landscapes.
Science
Wild dog management practice is underpinned by
evidence-based information.
Industry standard
practice
Wild dog management is adopted by industry as a standard
practice within livestock businesses.
Animal welfare
‘Best practice’ management that meets recognised animal
welfare standards is adopted.
Adaptive management
‘Best management’ practices improved through a
systematic and cyclical process of assessment, design,
implementation, monitoring, evaluation and adjustment.
Occupational health and
safety (OH&S)
High standards of OH&S are adopted in the management of
wild dogs.
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DAFWA Wild Dog Management Strategic Response 2013-18
2.
Strategic approach
2.1
Vision and outcomes
The DAFWA Invasive Species program recognises its leadership role in wild dog management
in Western Australia. The threat of wild dogs to livestock industries in Western Australia has
occurred over a long period and is currently increasing. DAFWA’s limited resources available for
wild dog management need to be applied strategically and cost-effectively.
DAFWA’s vision for Wild Dog Management is: The impact of wild dogs on Western
Australia’s agricultural and pastoral industries is minimised.
The Strategic Response contains six outcome areas to achieve this vision:
1. Industry has the skills to undertake effective wild dog management.
2. Current best practice information for wild dog management is adopted.
3. Coordinated planning at regional and state level maximises effectiveness of wild dog
management.
4. Wild dog management activities comply with statutory obligations.
5. New research and developing technologies continue to improve knowledge and
management of wild dogs.
6. The benefits of investment in wild dogs in Western Australia are monitored and evaluated.
2.2
Outcomes and strategies
2.2.1
Industry has the skills to undertake wild dog management
Wild dog control is the responsibility of all land managers. Increasing the skills and capacity to
actively undertake wild dog control will improve management efficiency. Statutory obligations
must also be considered in skill development. DAFWA will consult with industry to identify
training needs and work with relevant partners to support the development and delivery of
training
Strategies:
S1.1 Ensure that the skills required for wild dog management meet statutory requirements.
S1.2 Assist land managers develop skills and training for identified needs.
S1.3 Make available poisons accreditation for the use of 1080 and Strychnine.
2.2.2
Current best practice for wild dog management is adopted
Best practice management knowledge must be readily available to all stakeholders. This
knowledge and information needs to be current, incorporating recognised science and new
methodologies as they become available. It should be available through appropriate information
knowledge systems in a format that is readily accessible. Information and knowledge encourage
and support practice adoption.
Strategy:
S2.1 Ensure Best Practice Management (BPM) options are readily available to land managers to
support adoption.
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DAFWA Wild Dog Management Strategic Response 2013-18
2.2.3 Coordinated planning at regional and state level maximises effectiveness of wild
dog management
Coordinated planning will be essential to achieving the most effective control of wild dogs. It
enables the landscape to be assessed and the appropriate control measures determined. It also
allows for multiple values and owners (applying the cross tenure principle) to be recognised and
their individual responses determined within the bigger picture of landscape-wide control. It
assumes that ‘Best Practice Management’ will be applied. This will mean applying the
appropriate techniques at the relevant scale that will potentially result in differential application
across the landscape.
Regional scale coordination involves individuals and the regional community collectively
contributing to planning to maximise the effectiveness and benefits of wild dog control. DAFWA
will provide support for biosecurity groups1 to develop strategic landscape plans for wild dog
control by providing planning information and developing planning capacity.
Coordination at industry and state level will allow multiple values (economic, social and
environmental) to be considered in the context of a diverse range of situations.
Strategies:
S3.1 Develop the requirements for planning through partnership agreements.
S3.2 Develop partnerships to improve the coordination and delivery of wild dog control.
S3.3 Support the development of wild dog management plans with a focus on a strategic
landscape approach involving biosecurity groups.
2.2.4
Wild dog management activities comply with statutory obligations
Wild dogs are a declared pest under the BAM Act. DAFWA has statutory obligations under this
and other Acts associated with wild dog management, and will address its obligations under
these Acts and relevant Codes of Practices. DAWFA expects its partners to also fulfil their
statutory obligations under the relevant Acts and Codes of Practice.
Strategies:
S4.1 Undertake compliance activities for specific circumstances as required.
S4.2 Meet statutory obligations of the BAM Act and other Acts relevant to wild dogs control
activities (e.g. Animal Welfare Act 2002, Poisons Act 1964, Firearms Act 1973, Wildlife
Conservation Act 1950, Biological Control Act 1986).
2.2.5 New research and technologies continue to improve knowledge and management of
wild dogs
An adaptive management approach seeks to incorporate new knowledge as it becomes
available, to improve existing practices. Research into the ecology of wild dogs and
management techniques can contribute to an improved understanding of wild dogs, and how to
best manage them. DAFWA will seek to support and, where feasible, undertake research about
wild dogs and their associated management. This may include trialling or piloting new
approaches and continuing to incorporate recognised science into Best Practice Management.
Biosecurity groups include Recognised Biosecurity Groups, which are DAFWA’s preferred mechanism
for the community coordinated approach.
1
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DAFWA Wild Dog Management Strategic Response 2013-18
Strategies:
S5.1 Define research priorities of agreed needs for wild dog management in Western Australia.
S5.2 Develop a suite of State-based wild dog research projects.
2.2.6
The benefits of investment in wild dog management are monitored and evaluated
Understanding the impact of wild dog management is vital to target actions for the best impact
and industry outcomes. Knowing what actions have been taken, when and how is important to
inform ongoing planning. While monitoring this mobile and low density species can be costly,
accurately quantifying and monitoring its impacts on agriculture and developing appropriate
measures that provide useful information will be critical for future management.
DAFWA will develop monitoring and evaluation techniques to assess and improve the cost
effectiveness and impact of management responses. It will also look to use existing or new
information systems to store and make available information to support wild dog management.
Strategies:
S6.1 Develop an effective monitoring and evaluation framework to assess the benefits of
investment in wild dog management in Western Australia.
S6.2 Use information and knowledge management systems to make data readily accessible.
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DAFWA Wild Dog Management Strategic Response 2013-18
3.
Delivery framework
DAFWA’s Invasive Species (IS) Program has responsibility for this response strategy. All sub
programs contribute, specifically IS Program Management (ISPM), IS Policy and Planning
(ISPP), IS Science (ISS), IS Regional Delivery (ISRD) and IS Strategic Initiatives (ISSI). Actions
that have been developed for implementation at both State and Regional levels will require
coordination. Some actions that are placed in a State context will be delivered regionally.
A significant requirement is the proposed formation of an industry-led committee to provide
direction and advice for the state-wide management of the impacts of wild dogs.
Notes:
*Responsibility: ISPM: Invasive Species Program Management, ISS: Invasive Species Science, ISPP:
Invasive Species Policy and Planning, ISRD: Invasive Species Regional Delivery, ISPM (IKM) Information
and Knowledge Management, ISSI: Invasive Species Strategic Initiative.
*Timeframe: 1: Year 1; 1-5: Years 1-5; 1, 1-5: primary work to happen in year 1 and ongoing in later years.
Outcome 1: Industry has the skills to undertake wild dog management
State Strategy S1.1 Skills required for wild dog management meet statutory requirements.
Actions
Responsibility
Time frame (Year)
A1.1.1 Update BPM and other information to
include statutory obligations of relevant Acts.
ISS
1
A1.1.2 Consult industry to identify the training
needs for wild dog management.
ISRD
1
A1.1.3 Work with relevant partners to support
delivery of identified training (Cert IV or other).
ISRD
1-5
Regional Strategy S1.1 Skills required for wild dog management meet statutory requirements
Actions
Responsibility
Time frame (Year)
A1.1.4 Ensure all IS staff receive adequate training
in statutory obligations of actions associated with
wild dog management.
ISRD
1-5
A1.1.5 Support skill development of biosecurity
groups in statutory and governance requirements.
ISRD
(Rangelands)
1-3
(linked to broader IS Initiative)
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DAFWA Wild Dog Management Strategic Response 2013-18
State Strategy S1.2 Assist land managers* develop skills and training for identified needs.
*Land managers include: pastoralists; farmers; owners/occupiers of mining tenements;
managers of Conservation estate, Aboriginal lands and Crown estate.
Actions
Responsibility
Time frame (Year)
A1.2.1 At state and (as available) national level,
confirm best practice management for wild dogs.
ISS
1
A1.2.2 Form a, industry-led steering committee to
assist in identification of skill needs and to discuss
training options.
Industry with
assistance
from ISPM
2
A1.2.3 Identify and where necessary partner with
organisations with the capacity to deliver identified
industry training.
ISRD
1-5
A1.2.4 Identify options for industry-delivered
training in the use of 1080 and Strychnine.
ISRD
1-3
A1.2.5 Develop partnerships with funding
organisations (eg. Meat and Livestock Australia,
Australian Wool Innovation) for inclusion of
predator management in production activities.
ISPM/ISSI
1-2
A1.2.6 Develop internal DAFWA partnerships with
the sheep and beef industry programs to co-deliver
production information which includes predator
management.
ISPM
1-2
State Strategy S1.3 Make available accreditation for the use of the poisons 1080 and
Strychnine.
Actions
Responsibility
Time frame (Year)
A1.3.1 Develop a working relationship with
Department of Health for engagement in
accreditation process.
ISPM
1-2
A1.3.2 Through the Western Australia Biosecurity
Council, develop a consistent State wide approvals
process for use of 1080 and Strychnine.
Note: This to include:
 Examining the feasibility of enabling DPaW to
authorise 1080 and/or Strychnine use on DPaW
managed lands.
ISPM
1-2
A1.3.3 Review the process for authorisation to use
1080.
ISPM (IKM)
1
A1.3.4 Develop appropriate protocols to minimise
the risk of mis-use of poisons.
ISPP
1
Development of a standard procedure addressing
breach of use of 1080 and/or Strychnine.
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DAFWA Wild Dog Management Strategic Response 2013-18
Regional Strategy S1.3 Make available accreditation for the use of the poisons 1080 and
Strychnine.
Actions
Responsibility
Time frame (Year)
A1.3.5 Provide training and authorise the use of
1080 and/or Strychnine in absence of any other
approved training or authorisation provider (subject
ISRD
1-5
to review in 1.3.3)
Item
Performance measures for Outcome 1
Means of verification
PM1.1
Industry has the skills to meet statutory
obligations.
Number and nature of any reported
breaches of statutory obligations.
PM1.2
Formation of industry-led steering
committee to identify training needs.
Steering committee documentation.
PM1.3
Training has been provided to meet
industry needs.
 Training offered consistent with
identified needs.
 Number of courses.
 Demand for training is met.
PM1.4
1080 and Strychnine accreditation meets
required standards.
Breaches of use of 1080 and
Strychnine.
PM1.5
Effective relationship established with DoH.
DoH input to key areas.
Outcome 2: Current best practice for wild dog management is adopted
State Strategy S2.1 Ensure Best Practice Management options are readily available to land
managers to support adoption.
Actions
Responsibility
Time frame (Year)
A2.1.1 Undertake an industry review of State Wild
Dog Strategy.
Industry-led
steering
committee
1
A2.1.2 Update BPM to include tactics.
ISS
2
A2.1.3 Adoption of the National Model Code of
Practice for the Humane Control of Wild Dogs in
Western Australia.
ISPP
2
A2.1.4 Ensure adoption of the Western Australia
Wild Dog Management Code of Practice.
ISRD
2-5
A2.1.5 Develop a state-wide engagement program
for land manager adoption of current wild dog
management best practice.
Industry-led
steering
committee with
ISPM
assistance
2, 2-5
Note: BPM update linked to 3.3.1 and 4.2.1
Note: The engagement program should identify
mechanisms (new or existing) for knowledge
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DAFWA Wild Dog Management Strategic Response 2013-18
Actions
dissemination including use of technology (eg.
apps, ute guides, other), trials or pilot program, or
industry forums.
Responsibility
Time frame (Year)
A2.1.6 Best practice management (BPM)
knowledge is available through online and hard
copy media sources.
ISPM (IKM)
1, 2-5
Regional Strategy S2.1 Ensure Best Practice Management options are readily available to land
managers to support adoption.
Actions
Responsibility
Time frame (Year)
A2.1.7 Train regional IS staff in any new BPM
technologies or information.
ISRD
1-5
A1.2.8 Identify opportunities and develop
partnerships with regional groups for delivering wild
dog management information.
ISRD
1, 1-5
A2.1.9 Through regional groups, extend best
practice to land managers as part of a state-wide
process.
ISRD
1-5
A2.1.10 Work with other regional project staff to
deliver predator management information (includes
WDM) through production (sheep/cattle) and other
grower forums, workshops etc.
ISRD
1-5
A2.1.11 Provide support to biosecurity groups in
strategic landscape planning for wild dog control.
ISRD
1-5
Item
Performance measures for Outcome 2
Means of verification
PM2.1
BPM is current (and includes details of
statutory obligations, tactics, and strategic
landscape approach).
Current version of BPM
PM2.2
Code of Practice is adopted by land
managers.
Number of breaches of animal
welfare
PM2.3
Community-developed Regional Wild Dog
Plans are based on BPM.
Number and proportion of RBG
plans endorsed by DAFWA
PM2.4
Predator management is included in
producer field days and forums.
Number and nature of
workshops/forums/other industry
events that include predator
management
PM2.5
An Engagement Plan has been completed.
 Documented plan
Annual review of plan by industryled steering committee
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DAFWA Wild Dog Management Strategic Response 2013-18
Outcome 3: Coordinated planning at regional and state level maximises
effectiveness of wild dog management
Strategy S3.1 Develop the obligation for planning through partnership agreements
Actions
Responsibility
Time frame (Year)
A3.1.1 Include requirements for planning within
partnership arrangements for wild dog
management.
ISPP
1
State Strategy S3.2 Develop State partnerships to improve the coordination and delivery of wild
dog management
Actions
Responsibility
Time frame (Year)
A3.2.1 Develop Terms of Reference (ToR) for the
industry-led steering committee.
Industry-led
steering
committee with
ISPP
assistance
2
Industry with
ISPM
assistance
2
Note: ToR may include reference to endorsement
of BPM. Other functions linked to A1.2.2, A2.1.5,
A5.1.1 and PM6.2)
A3.2.2 Establish an industry-led steering
committee.
Regional Strategy S3.2 Develop State partnerships to improve the coordination and delivery of
wild dog management
Actions
Responsibility
Time frame (Year)
A3.2.3 Develop pathways to enact relevant advice
from the industry-led steering committee within
operational plans.
ISRD
1, 2-5
Note: RBGs will determine individual management
response based on advice from the industry-led
steering committee.
State Strategy S3.3 Support development of Wild Dog Management Plans with a focus on a
strategic landscape approach
Actions
Responsibility
Time frame (Year)
A3.3.1 Update BPM to include strategic landscape
planning for wild dog management.
ISS
1
Note: BPM update linked to 2.1.2 and 4.2.1
Regional Strategy S3.3 Support development of Wild Dog Management Plans with a focus on
a strategic landscape approach
Actions
Responsibility
Time frame (Year)
A3.3.2 Support regional group planning processes
for wild dog management
ISRD
1-5
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DAFWA Wild Dog Management Strategic Response 2013-18
Item
Performance measures for Outcome 3
Means of verification
PM3.1
The requirement for planning is included in
partnership agreements.
Documentation of partnership
agreements
PM3.2
Establishment of an industry-led steering
committee.


PM3.3
Biosecurity group plans demonstrate a
strategic landscape approach.
Plans are endorsed by DAFWA
Documentation of meetings
Attendance of chairs of
biosecurity groups and industry
representatives
Outcome 4: Wild dog management activities comply with statutory obligations
State Strategy S4.1 Undertake compliance activities for specific circumstances as required.
Actions
Responsibility
Time frame (Year)
A4.1.1 Determine guidelines to address statutory
obligations.
ISPP
1
Regional Strategy S4.1 Undertake compliance activities for specific circumstances as required.
Actions
Responsibility
Time frame (Year)
A4.1.2 Undertake actions to satisfy required
statutory obligations.
ISRD
1-5
State Strategy S4.2 Meet statutory obligations of the BAM Act and other Acts relevant to wild
dog management activities (eg. Animal Welfare Act 2002, Poisons Act 1964, Firearms Act 1973,
Wildlife Conservation Act 1950, Biological Control Act 1986)
Actions
Responsibility
Time frame (Year)
A4.2.1 Develop Code of Practice and best practice
management (BPM) to meet state statutory
obligations.
ISS/ISPP
1
ISPP
1
Note: BPM update linked to 2.1.2 & 3.3.1
A4.2.2 Develop standardised ‘terms of
engagement’ for partners involved in wild dog
management (covering statutory obligations,
governance, planning, BPM, Evidence based M&E
linked to 3.1).
Regional Strategy S4.2 Meet statutory obligations of the BAM Act and other Acts relevant to
wild dog management activities (eg. Animal Welfare Act 2002, Poisons Act 1964, Firearms Act
1973, Wildlife Conservation Act 1950, Biological Control Act 1986)
Actions
Responsibility
Time frame (Year)
A4.2.3 Operations for wild dog management
comply with statutory obligations.
ISRD
1-5
A4.2.4 Land managers are aware of their statutory
obligations.
ISRD
1-5
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DAFWA Wild Dog Management Strategic Response 2013-18
Item
Performance measures for Outcome 4
Means of verification
PM4.1
DAFWA guidelines to address statutory
obligations.


PM4.2
DAFWA Staff meet statutory obligations.
Number of reported breaches
PM4.3
Partnership arrangements include a
requirement to meet statutory obligations.
Documentation of partnership
agreements
Guideline documentation
Response consistent with
guidelines
Outcome 5: New research and developing technologies continue to improve
knowledge and management of wild dogs.
State Strategy 5.1 Define research priorities of agreed needs for wild dog management in
Western Australia.
Actions
Responsibility
Time frame (Year)
A5.1.1 Prioritise research needs.
ISS
1-2
Regional Strategy 5.1 Define research priorities of agreed needs for wild dog management in
Western Australia.
Actions
Responsibility
Time frame (Year)
A5.1.2 Advise IS Science of research needs in wild
dog management.
ISRD
1-5
State Strategy 5.2 Develop a State based wild dog research project.
Actions
Responsibility
Time frame (Year)
A5.2.1 Undertake or support research as feasible.
ISS
1-5
A5.2.2 Establish collaborators for wild dog research
in Western Australia.
ISS
1-5
A5.2.3 Identify and secure funding for research.
ISS
1-5
Note: Research to assess and report on the
benefits of investment in wild dog management
(Outcome 6)
Item
Performance measures for Outcome 5
Means of verification
PM5.1
Research priorities identified for wild dogs
in Western Australia.
Documentation recognised by
relevant industry groups.
PM5.2
Extent to which research activities are
meeting priorities.
Number/proportion of research
projects that directly address
identified priorities.
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DAFWA Wild Dog Management Strategic Response 2013-18
Outcome 6: The benefits of investment in wild dog management in Western
Australia are identified
State Strategy S6.1 Develop an effective monitoring and evaluation framework to assess the
benefits of investment in wild dog management in Western Australia.
Actions
Responsibility
Time frame (Year)
A6.1.1 Determine the measures of impact for wild
dog management.
ISS
1-2
A6.1.2 Develop measures of effectiveness of
investment in wild dog management.
ISS/ISPP
1-2
A6.1.3 Develop measures of performance
effectiveness of regional plans.
ISRD/ISPP
1-2
A6.1.4 Incorporate data requirements for measures
in information and knowledge systems.
ISPM (IKM)
1-2
State Strategy 6.2 Provide information and knowledge systems to make data readily
accessible.
Actions
Responsibility
Time frame (Year)
A6.2.1 Identify DAFWA’s data requirements to
support wild dog research and BPM.
ISPM (IKM)
1-2
A6.2.2 Determine suitability and any need for
modification of existing information knowledge
systems to support data access and analysis.
ISPM (IKM)
1-2
A6.2.3 Review suitability of existing tools (DAFWA
or other, eg. Feral Scan) for land managers to
report wild dog information.
ISPM (IKM)
1, 2-5
A6.2.4 Develop appropriate protocols for wild dog
data use/sharing across government and with other
organisations.
ISPM (IKM)
1
A6.2.5 In conjunction with DAFWA’s Client and
Resource Information System, determine protocols
for use of mapping and image products to support
regional planning processes.
ISPM (IKM)
1
A6.2.6 Develop standardised reporting processes
for information on wild dogs.
ISPM (IKM)
1-2
A6.2.7 Develop partnerships with appropriate
organisations for the purpose of data capture.
ISPM (IKM)
2-5
Note: This could identify other industry mechanisms
for data capture, eg. abattoir assessment, meat
inspectors, group self-assessment.
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DAFWA Wild Dog Management Strategic Response 2013-18
Regional Strategy 6.2 Provide information and knowledge systems to make data readily
accessible.
Actions
Responsibility
Time frame (Year)
A6.2.8 Report on wild dog activities into DAFWA
IKM systems utilising agreed process/formats.
ISRD
1-5
A6.2.9 Contribute to regional data capture through
awareness raising, training and/or technical advice.
ISRD
1-5
Item
Performance measures for Outcome 6
Means of verification
PM6.1
Report on benefits of investment in wild
dog management.
Documented report.
PM6.2
Indicators of effectiveness of performance
in wild dog management established.
Indicators of effectiveness accepted
by the industry-led steering
committee.
PM6.3
DAFWA IS information and knowledge
systems meet the storage and access
requirements for wild dog data.
DAFWA wild dog research is not
limited by access to data in DAFWA
systems.
PM6.4
Standardised Industry data collection
methods established.

RBGs (or other biosecurity groups) and
relevant regional sources (abattoirs,
inspectors, others) provide wild dog
information.

PM6.5



Data relevant to research and
development.
Low level of non-standard data.
Use of data collection
mechanisms.
Amount of data.
Consistent and adequate data to
enable research.
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DAFWA Wild Dog Management Strategic Response 2013-18
4.
Roles and responsibilities
Wild dog management is undertaken by a range of individuals, organisations and government
agencies. Clarifying roles and coordinating activities of those involved can assist in better
utilisation of limited resources. This section lists DAFWA’s understanding of the roles of various
individuals and organisations within Western Australia who play a part in wild dog management.
Roles and responsibilities of stakeholders are formalised in mechanisms such as service
delivery arrangements and memoranda of understanding.
4.1
DAFWA

To administer the BAM Act and subsidiary legislation;

To facilitate a coordinated response to wild dog management (including national
representation, partnerships and information);

To build stakeholder capacity in the management of wild dogs;

To meet requirements of the BAM Act and associated Acts that impact on control activities;

To support and, where feasible, undertake research into wild dogs and new or advanced
management techniques; and

To develop with industry, mechanisms for quantifying wild dog impacts and monitoring the
efficacy of wild dog management actions.
4.2


4.3

4.4
Department of Parks and Wildlife (DPaW)
DPaW has specific responsibilities under the BAM Act and Regulations as the land manager
of DPaW reserves, Unallocated Crown Land (UCL) and unmanaged reserves.
DPaW functions as listed in its Good Neighbour Policy (2007) include:
o To manage wild dogs (declared pest) on DPaW controlled land;
o
To work with other land managers to provide a coordinated approach to wild dog
control as the State guardian of natural biodiversity, and
o
Priorities for wild dog control on DPaW land, UCL and unmanaged reserves will be
developed in collaboration with DAFWA, Shires, land managers and local
biosecurity groups.
Department of Lands (DoL)
Except for Crown land that is leased, reserved and subject to a management order, or is under
the management of other agencies, DoL has direct management responsibility for UCL and
unmanaged reserves. The responsibility for managing declared plants and animals on UCL
and unmanaged reserves outside the metropolitan area, regional centres and town sites is
with DPaW.
Land managers, owners and occupiers

To comply with responsibilities as detailed under the BAM Act;

To manage wild dogs (as a declared pest) on pastoral leases and privately owned land;
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DAFWA Wild Dog Management Strategic Response 2013-18

To report wild dog impacts, numbers and management undertaken to contribute to coordinated
planning and ongoing management; and

To work with other land managers, owners and occupiers and management groups to
provide a coordinated approach to wild dog control.
4.5
Industry bodies

To understand and promote the need for active and coordinated wild dog management; and

To fund research, via industry-funded research bodies such as the Meat & Livestock
Australia and Australian Wool Innovation.
5.
Evaluation
The DAFWA Wild Dog Management Strategic Response 2013-18 outlines outcome areas,
strategies, actions and a series of performance measures. These measures will be assessed by
the Invasive Species program as part of its annual planning cycle to determine the extent to
which they have been implemented and the need for further refinement or modification.
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DAFWA Wild Dog Management Strategic Response 2013-18
6.
References
DAFWA 2006: Wild Dog Management Best Practice Manual, Bulletin No. 4677, May 2006.
DAFWA 2005: Western Australian Wild Dog Management Strategy 2005: Miscellaneous
Publication 27/2005, August 2005.
DAFWA 2014: Draft Wild Dog Impact Management Policy
Department of Conservation and Land Management 2007: Draft Good Neighbour Policy.
http://www.dpaw.wa.gov.au/images/documents/plantsanimals/plants/weeds/environmental_weed_strategy_wa.pdf.
Sharpe T & Saunders G 2012: Draft Model Code of Practice for the Humane Control of Wild
Dogs. http://secure.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/invasive/publications/pubs/cop-wilddogs.pdf.
WoolProducers Australia 2014: National Wild Dog Action Plan: Promoting and supporting
community-driven action for landscape-wide wild dog management
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DAFWA Wild Dog Management Strategic Response 2013-18
Abbreviations
BAM Act
Biosecurity and Agriculture Management Act 2007
BAM Regulations
Biosecurity and Agriculture Management Regulations 2013
BPM
Best practice management
CoP
Code of Practice
DAFWA
Department of Agriculture and Food Western Australia
DoH
Department of Health
DoL
Department of Lands
DPaW
Department of Parks and Wildlife
IA CRC
Invasive Animals Cooperative Research Centre
IKM
Information and Knowledge Management
IS
Invasive Species
ISSI
Invasive Species Strategic Initiatives
ISPM
Invasive Species Program Management
ISPP
Invasive Species Policy and Planning
ISRD
Invasive Species Regional Delivery
ISS
Invasive Species Science
OH&S
Occupational health and safety
RBGs
Recognised Biosecurity Groups
TOR
Terms of reference
UCL
Unallocated Crown Land
VPC
Vertebrate Pest Committee
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