Rabbit control program - update

Published on 22 January 2026

Council is launching alternative methods to control urban rabbit populations across the region, with biological control no longer an effective option.

Council had previously advised it would be releasing a biological control, Calicivirus - fatal to rabbits - to control these pests.

Unfortunately, testing of local populations has revealed there is already a resistance to the virus in a number of locations throughout the Mid-Western Region. This means biocontrol through Calicivirus release would be ineffective and could increase immunity in rabbits.

With no biocontrol option, the program now shifts to an integrated, community-wide approach.

As a priority pest species, landowners or occupiers, have a General Biosecurity Duty under the NSW Biosecurity Act 2015 to undertake strategic rabbit control to protect assets and minimise the impact of wild rabbits on neighbouring land.

Council will lead control efforts on Council-owned land, but it is calling on landowners to assist.

To help landowners, Council will host a workshop next month with practical steps from a Biosecurity Officer on rabbit control, including eradicating rabbits at the right time, destroying warrens to reduce breeding ability, monitoring and preventing reinfestation and working with neighbours.

With Calicivirus active across the local government area, pet rabbit owners are reminded to have their vaccinations up to date as their pet could be infected through direct contact with a wild rabbit or insect vectors.

Council will advise when a date is confirmed for the Rabbit Control Workshop.