Australia splits on pet crocodiles: New rules vs. outright bans
New rules for keeping crocodiles as pets are being introduced in Australia. The Northern Territory has updated its enclosure standards, while Victoria is implementing a ban. Meanwhile, Animal Care Australia has expressed concerns about the lack of consultation in Victoria.
In the Northern Territory, new enclosure standards require a lockable door and an isolating section to reduce human-crocodile interaction. Currently, 63 people are licensed to keep 123 crocodiles. The territory is also proposing new regulations, including a unique identification marking for crocodiles, a $299 fee for a five-year permit, and a AU$100 recovery fee for escaped reptiles. The government is inviting public feedback on these guidelines.
In contrast, Victoria is banning the keeping of crocodiles as pets. Anyone who currently owns a crocodile can keep it until the pet dies. Michael Donnelly, president of Animal Care Australia, has criticized the lack of consultation on this ban. He supports keeping native animals as pets with appropriate regulations and licensing, but is unaware of any crocodile-related attacks or cruelty charges in Victoria.
The Northern Territory is updating its guidelines to improve safety and welfare for pet crocodiles, while Victoria is implementing a ban. Animal Care Australia has raised concerns about the lack of consultation in Victoria. The Northern Territory government is inviting public feedback on its proposed regulations.
