Dingoes vs. Farmers: The Divisive Debate Over Wildlife Management in NSW
By Editor • September 7, 2026 • 2 min read
The ongoing clash between farmers and conservationists in New South Wales over the management of dingoes and wild dogs has intensified, with a parliamentary inquiry set to delve into the contentious issue. With over 400 submissions received, the inquiry seeks to address the financial and emotional toll on farmers suffering from livestock attacks.
Farmers' Concerns Over Livestock Attacks
Grazier Greg Alcock, who operates a sheep farm near Cooma, has voiced his frustrations, recounting the severe impact of wild dog attacks on his livestock. He claims to have lost approximately $60,000 worth of animals in the last five years due to these attacks, and has invested around $500,000 in fencing to protect his property. "They can maul 60 animals a night, chew bits of their legs, bits of their body and then just leave them," Alcock lamented, indicating the emotional toll on his family as they deal with the aftermath of these violent incidents.
The Other Side: Conservationists' Perspective
On the flip side, conservationists and Indigenous traditional owners are advocating for the protection of dingoes, which they argue play a crucial ecological role. Lionel Currie, a traditional owner and former participant in a wild dog baiting program, has called for an end to dingo culling in national parks. "I’d like to see them stop killing dingoes in national parks … I think Australia should be ashamed [of that]," he stated, emphasizing the cultural significance of dingoes to his community.
Government's Approach to Dingo Management
The New South Wales government recognizes dingoes as an ancient breed of domestic dog but categorizes them as wild dogs under their management policies. Agriculture Minister Tara Moriarty has indicated that the government supports a coordinated approach to managing wild dogs that balances livestock protection with ecological considerations. Meanwhile, conservation groups like Defend the Wild are pushing for legal protections for dingoes and alternative solutions for farmers to safeguard their livestock.
Source: www.abc.net.au
