Inquiry into licences to harm native animals

The NSW Upper House has established an inquiry into licences to harm native animals across the state. According to Animal Welfare Committee chair Emma Hurst MLC the inquiry will look at the welfare impacts of control methods as well as examine the system of licencing. "This inquiry will be a thorough examination of the system under which licences to harm native animals are issued," Ms Hurst said. "In particular, it will look at the welfare impacts of current lethal control methods, including whether they give enough consideration to animal welfare and species identification. "The inquiry will also examine whether the current assessment method used to grant licences is adequate, given that in 2023, over 650,000 licences to harm native animals were approved, more than any other State or Territory." According to Ms Hurst the committee will also explore the extent First Nations consultation has taken place. "In addition the committee will explore the extent to which First Nations communities and Traditional Owners are consulted prior to the issuing of licences to harm native wildlife, and how cultural values and responsibilities are incorporated into decision making and any other related matters," Ms Hurst said. The committee is calling for submissions from interested individuals and stakeholders, including community groups, government bodies and members of the community. The closing date for submissions is Friday December 19, 2025 with committee activity to follow next year. For further information about the inquiry, including the terms of reference, please visit the committee website at https://www.parliament.nsw.gov.au/committees/inquiries/Pages/inquiry-details.aspx?pk=3144.