Document ID: chunk:federal_register_of_legislation:F2017L00031:body:0:p12
Version: federal_register_of_legislation:F2017L00031
Segment Type: other
Provision Reference: 
Character Range: 32640–37808

to further investigate the correlation between rabbits and weed species and increase our understanding of the benefits of integrated management. Previous research has suggested that high levels of grazing and soil disturbance by rabbits around warrens is likely to promote the growth of introduced plant species, especially invasive weeds (Williams et al. 1995; Cooke 2012b). By understanding the correlation of rabbits and weeds, land managers should be able to respond more cost-effectively and efficiently.

Action 2.3 aims to continue research into whether or not rabbits sustain populations of native species (i.e. act as a main component of their diet), and whether rabbit control has any implications for the survival of these populations. In particular, research should aim to create a greater understanding of how native predators respond to a sudden and widespread reduction in rabbit numbers.

Performance indicators

       * Control program planning demonstrates consideration of unintended consequences of proposed actions.
       * Control programs demonstrate use of integrated control measures for pest species that interact with rabbits and for weed species promoted by rabbits.
       * Research papers are published that inform whether rabbit control is detrimental or beneficial to the survival of native species.

Action                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        Priority and timeframe         Outcome                                                                                                                                                          Output                                                                                                                                 Responsibility

2.1 Continue research into understanding the contribution of rabbits to the diet and abundance of feral cats, foxes and wild dogs in different landscapes, and any potential effects of modifying pest predator populations (e.g. prey switching, decline in native species)  High priority, medium term     A clear and greater understanding of how management programs can influence rabbit and pest predator populations.                                                 Research papers and reports on the interaction between rabbits and pest predators are published.                                       Researchers, Government and land managers

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             Land managers are able to implement more integrated management programs for rabbits and other pest species which don't deliver perverse environmental outcomes.

2.2 Increase understanding of the correlation between rabbits and weed species and the benefits of integrating their management                                                                                                                                               Medium priority, medium term   A greater understanding of correlations between rabbit and  weed control.                                                                                        Research papers and reports on correlations between rabbits and weeds are published.                                                   Researchers, Government and land managers

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             Land managers are able to implement more effective pest management.

2.3 Continue research into understanding the contribution of rabbits to the diet and abundance of native species.                                                                                                                                                             High priority, medium term     A clear and greater understanding of whether rabbit management programs affect the abundance of native species – predators and herbivores.                       Research papers and reports on the role or rabbits in maintaining populations of native species, including predators, are published.   Researchers, Government and land managers

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             Land managers are able to implement more effective pest management.

Objective 3 – Improve the effectiveness of rabbit control programs

In order to reduce the