Targeted croc culls get green light in new NT government saltwater crocodile management plan

The government has released its saltwater crocodile management plan for the next decade, which includes controversial plans to revive culling.

Australian saltwater crocodiles are considered among the most dangerous predators in the world. Picture: Supplied.

Targeted culling of saltwater crocodiles will resume in the Northern Territory, with the government stopping short of mass culls in its new 10-year plan to manage the apex predators.

The Saltwater Crocodile Management Program 2024-2034, released Wednesday, will allow crocs in specific areas to be targeted to improve the safety of swimmers.

It comes less than a year after a 67-year-old man was mauled by a saltie at Wangi Falls, one of the Top End’s most popular swimming spots.

The number of crocs in the Territory is about 100,000, a return to pre-colonial levels after mass culls and hunting in the 1970s saw the population drop to just 3000.

Under the new program, 1200 can be killed each year, up from 300 under the previous plan.

It is intended the full quota of 90,000 eggs be harvested and there will be no limit to the removal of problem crocodiles.

Under the new program 1200 crocs can be removed in the NT each year. (Photo by DAVID GRAY / AFP)

Budget 2024 will have $800,000 allocated to crocodile management, and another $1.5m a year has been committed ongoing from 2025-26.

The funding will be directed to develop and deploy new technologies for croc detection and monitoring, to Aboriginal ranger groups, and to better resource the government’s Crocodile Management Team.

The government said the program was evidence based and drafted in consultation with scientific experts, industry stakeholders, animal welfare groups and the public.

During consultation more opportunities were also identified to enhance Aboriginal job opportunities and participation in the crocodile industry, which is worth at least $25m to the Territory economy.

“The program will be reviewed in five years to ensure the measures put in place are delivering what stakeholders asked for during the consultation period,” Environment Minister Kate Worden said.

“The management of crocodiles is important for public safety, that’s why it is important we continue the Croc Wise campaign to educate the community about the dangers saltwater crocodiles pose.”

The Crocodile Farming Industry Strategic Plan 2024–33 was also released on Wednesday to help guide industry growth.

Originally published as Targeted croc culls get green light in new NT government saltwater crocodile management plan