In 1859 when Thomas Austin released 24 wild rabbits on his Geelong property, he could not have foreseen that they would breed so prolifically and spread across the southern parts of the continent. They also cause serious erosion problems, prevent native vegetation from regenerating, attack domestic gardens and undermine farm sheds and other buildings. Landholders planning to grow broadacre, horticulture or tree crops or to preserve native vegetation need to control rabbits first. Even landholders not growing crops are still legally obliged to control rabbits to protect their neighbours' land. The key to success is persistence.
Maximum effectiveness is achieved by combining appropriate control methods.
Best control is achieved in late summer when rabbit numbers are already low and other feed is limited. Sometimes it will not be possible to use poison but other methods are available. Areas intended for planting or conservation efforts, especially near rabbit harbourage, should be thoroughly checked. This is particularly important in areas where rabbits have previously been a problem. Rabbit activity is usually indicated by scratchings, dung heaps and active burrows or warrens.