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The Centre for Ecosystem Science (CES), UNSW Sydney, supports policies and management of government, focused on improving the effectiveness of biodiversity conservation and natural resource management with a firm evidence base. Current rates of biodiversity loss around the world and in Australia are unprecedented. Researchers in CES have established track records in the research and management of Australia’s biodiversity, both within and outside protected areas. Our researchers also work on the impacts of invasive species.

Cats (Felis catus) are exacting an enormous toll on Australia’s wildlife. Their impact is in metropolitan and urban areas. There are significant opportunities to reduce this toll by implementing legislation, policy and management focusing on limiting their impact, while still allowing pet cats. There is a need for an increasing focus on improving management effectiveness in controlling cats, requiring investment in innovative techniques, more widespread use of a range of tools required to control these feral predators.

We propose 19 recommendations to improve the management of cat populations in New South Wales and reduce their impact on Australia’s wildlife.

See below for the full submission.