Livestock Council member Scott Pickering, who is also the WAFarmers Wild Dog Representative on the National Wild Dog Action Plan Consultative Committee, said a number of issues had been raised with the Council about the process.

“When it comes to permit renewals, multiple permits and the validity period for each permit, the process needs to be modified and simplified, with the same processes and costs being applicable across the whole State,” Pickering said.

“Multiple Recognised Biosecurity Groups across WA have one clear request; they need more information regarding the permit status of landholders within the group’s boundaries as this will promote the benefit of the ‘nil tenure’ approach across and within all Regional Biosecurity Groups,” he said. 

The WAFarmers National Wild Dog Representative said the group urged DAFWA to make improvements to the permit structure and process as a priority.  

“We are aware that DAFWA is keen to improve the permit process and is interested in working with us to bring about improvements to the system as quickly as possible,” Pickering said.

“DAFWA will need the support of industry in developing the new permit process and uniform fees across the state, including working with permit holders who have on-ground experience, as well as the Licensed Pest Management Technicians and RBG Executive Officers,” he said.

WA Wild Dog Control coordinator Meja Aldrich said the consequences of not addressing these issues in a timely manner were dire.

“Given the WA Wild Dog Action Plan 2016-2021 is underway; there is a need to resolve these issues as quickly as possible.”