State Government neglect fuels rabbit infestations across regional public land

Nationals Member for Euroa, Annabelle Cleeland, has called out the Allan Labor Government for failing to control rampant pest infestations on unused and neglected public land, warning it is leaving rural communities to deal with the damage.

Ms Cleeland said residents, landholders, and community groups are reporting growing problems as rabbits spill over from unmanaged Crown land, rail reserves, and other state-owned sites.

“Communities are being left to pick up the pieces while the Allan Labor Government won’t do the basics,” Ms Cleeland said.

“Rabbits are undermining building footings, damaging recreation areas, and causing serious erosion. These problems are entirely avoidable, yet they keep getting worse because public land managers aren’t doing their job.”

Ms Cleeland said the Allan Labor Government’s inaction is creating unacceptable safety and financial risks for councils, community organisations, and private property owners.

“When the state owns the land, it has a responsibility to maintain it. “Instead, vast sections of public land are being left unmanaged and rural communities are paying the price.”

She said locals who actively control pests on their own properties are frustrated watching neighbouring government land become “breeding grounds” that undo their hard work.

“People are investing time and money to do the right thing, while government land next door is completely overrun. It is unfair and it is avoidable.”

Ms Cleeland is calling for an immediate statewide review of pest management on unused public land, mandatory maintenance schedules, and transparent reporting so communities can see where control efforts are failing.

“Regional communities should not be left exposed to damage and risk because of government neglect. We need proper pest control, accountability, and action now.”