Bats

In reply to the Hon. N.J. CENTOFANTI (Leader of the Opposition) ().29 November 2023).

The Hon. C.M. SCRIVEN (Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development, Minister for Forest Industries): I am advised:

Managing wildlife has always been an ongoing discussion with growers, and government support is provided where needed. Growers have often implemented systems such as gas guns to ward off unwanted animals on their properties. Another useful tool has been utilising netting, which has greater benefits outside of animal control.

The $14.6 million Horticulture Netting Infrastructure Grants scheme, funded by the federal government in 2020 and coordinated by the state government, initially focused on primary producers from the Riverland and Adelaide Hills/Greater Adelaide regions who had been impacted by repeated severe hail events between 2016-2019.

More growers across South Australia will now be able to apply for grants of up to $300,000 to help purchase netting to protect their produce. The program has been extended to all regions of South Australia, subsidising up to 50  per cent for new or replacement protective netting.

$10.317 million has been committed with $4.283 million remaining in the funds. Applications remain open until 20 May 2024, or when all funds are allocated.

I am also advised:

The management of wildlife and the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1972 is administered by the Department for Environment and Water (DEW).

DEW hold regular meetings between all relevant grey-headed flying fox stakeholders including PIRSA, SA Health, and SA Power as an opportunity to discuss any specific issues such as weather impacts, animal welfare and public health.