A farmer in northwestern Victoria has submitted a bill for nearly $40,000 to the state government, citing the loss of over 100 sheep attributed to animals he believes are dingoes. Scott Keller, whose farm is located in Rainbow, has lodged the claim following a period of significant livestock predation. This situation highlights the ongoing tension between agricultural interests and the conservation of dingoes, which are a protected species in Victoria, particularly in the Mallee region where Mr. Keller’s property is situated.

Livestock Predation and Farmer’s Claim

Mr. Keller reported that 160 of his sheep have been killed or injured. He has formally ‘invoiced’ the Victorian government for $39,765 to cover his financial losses. The farmer also indicated that he sought a permit to euthanize three animals he suspects are responsible for the attacks. Describing the severity of the attacks, Mr. Keller recounted an incident where an ewe was so badly injured that it had to be put down. He shared a harrowing account: “There was one ewe that had been attacked that we had to put down – it had the udder eaten off of it and its guts were nearly hanging out the back between its legs.”

The emotional toll on his family was evident. Mr. Keller’s father, a farmer with over 55 years of experience, was deeply affected by the events. “At that point my father broke down… that’s a bloke who has been farming for 55-odd years and seen a fair bit of crap in his time,” Scott Keller stated. He further detailed the extent of the losses over a short period, noting, “In six weeks we’d lost 33 lambs… It’s fairly disheartening.” These losses have created significant financial and emotional strain on the farming operation.

Dingo Protection vs. Wild Dog Control

The core of the issue lies in the legal status and management of dingoes in Victoria. Dingoes are classified as a threatened species, with two primary populations: one in the eastern part of the state and a smaller, more vulnerable population in the Mallee region of the northwest. Mr. Keller’s farm is located within this latter area, where dingoes face a critical risk of extinction.

Regulations, including the Victorian Dingo Unprotection Order introduced in 2024, permit the control of dingoes in eastern Victoria using both lethal and non-lethal methods. However, in the northwest, where the Mallee population is critically endangered, dingoes remain strictly protected. The government acknowledges the difficulty in distinguishing between dingoes and wild dogs without genetic testing, noting that penalties apply for harming protected wildlife like dingoes. Recent testing in 2023 indicated that a significant majority, 87 percent, of sampled wild dingoes and dogs in Victoria exhibited dingo genetics, complicating management efforts.

Government Response and Conservation Concerns

Victorian Environment Minister Enver Erdogan addressed the situation, emphasizing the government’s recognition of dingoes as a culturally significant native species. “We as a government recognise that dingoes are a protected and culturally significant native species,” Minister Erdogan told reporters. He highlighted the deep connection many Traditional Owner groups have with the dingo, describing it not just as wildlife but as a symbol of kinship and a totem animal, integral to their family structures.

While acknowledging the impact on livestock, the minister underscored the paramount importance of conservation efforts in the northwest. “The dingo, to many Traditional Owner groups that I’ve spoken to, is not just a native species. We’re talking about kinship. It’s a totem animal, it’s part of family for many Traditional Owners,” he explained. “We also acknowledge the serious impacts they do have on livestock.”

Minister Erdogan elaborated on the specific conservation focus in the Mallee region: “In the north-west of Victoria the focus is on conservation because the Mallee dingo population is at imminent risk of extinction. This is a real biodiversity travesty, so we need to take steps to protect them.” This stance prioritizes the survival of the critically endangered Mallee dingo population, even amidst agricultural concerns about predation.

The Farmer’s Perspective and Future Outlook

Mr. Keller’s actions represent a direct appeal to the government for compensation and recognition of the damage caused by predation. His significant bill reflects the substantial economic impact on his farm. The situation brings to the forefront the complex challenge of balancing the needs of farmers who rely on livestock with the imperative to protect vulnerable native wildlife.

The farmer’s claim and the government’s response illustrate a broader debate about wildlife management, conservation priorities, and the economic realities faced by agricultural communities in areas with protected native species. As the Mallee dingo population remains at risk, finding effective and mutually agreeable solutions for both conservation and livestock protection will be crucial for the future of farming in the region.