Free baits on offer to support coordinated pest control across the Central Tablelands

Autumn is one of the most important periods for land managers to undertake baiting activities, with wild dog and fox activity typically increasing during the breeding season. This seasonal rise makes it a key time for coordinated efforts to reduce pest numbers, protect livestock and safeguard vulnerable native wildlife.

During the program, accredited landholders in the Central Tablelands Local Land Services region can access a range of free 1080 baits, including meat baits, chicken wings, baited grain, 50 DOGGONE baits and one farmpack of FOXOFF per landholder, as well as baited carrots for rabbit control.

Beau Ricketts, Team Leader Invasive Species, said coordinated control programs deliver the strongest results for landholders and their neighbours.

“Pest animals don’t recognise property boundaries, so the most effective defence is a united front,” he said.

“When neighbours bait at the same time through community‑led programs, we see a landscape‑wide impact that simply can’t be achieved by landholders working alone.

“It reduces wild dog pressure, limits fox predation, lowers rabbit and feral pig numbers, and helps protect both livestock and native wildlife.”

Local Land Services works closely with landholders and community groups to support effective, practical pest animal management. This includes providing baits to certified landholders, coordinating broadscale programs, and helping neighbours work together to manage activity across a region rather than property by property.

Managing pest animals is a shared responsibility, and the free bait program is designed to make participation as accessible as possible.

Landholders using 1080 baits must meet legislative requirements under the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA). To support compliance, Local Land Services provides free Vertebrate Pesticide Induction Training (VPIT), required for the use of 1080, Pindone, RHDV or PAPP baits in NSW.
 
VPIT is available online at no cost or via face‑to‑face sessions depending on demand. The accreditation lasts five years and ensures landholders have the knowledge needed to use baits confidently, responsibly and safely, with consideration for neighbouring properties, domestic pets and the broader community.

“We strongly encourage landholders who haven’t previously taken part in coordinated pest control to get involved this season,” Beau said.

“The more properties we have participating, the stronger the outcome across the entire landscape.”

Landholders wishing to participate or access free baits are encouraged to contact their local biosecurity officer in the Central Tablelands on 1300 795 299 to confirm requirements, available dates and training needs.

Media contact

For more information, please contact Cassie Jones via media@lls.nsw.gov.au.