Council is aware of the concerns regarding the alleged removal of Grey headed Flying Fox (GHFF) habitat on privately owned land in Koo Wee Rup.
The GHFF is listed as vulnerable and is protected under both State and Federal legislation. All wildlife in Victoria, including the GHFF, is protected under the Victorian Government's Wildlife Act 1975, which establishes offences for taking, harming, disturbing, or destroying wildlife or wildlife habitat without authorisation.
GHFF is also listed as a threatened species under the Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act). Any action likely to have a significant impact on the species or its habitat must be referred to the Commonwealth Minister for the Environment before works commence. Responsibility for assessment, compliance and enforcement under the EPBC Act rests solely with the Commonwealth Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW).
Council understands that DEECA's Conservation Regulator will continue to investigate any potential breaches of the Wildlife Act as part of their regulatory processes.
Council acknowledges the importance of ensuring the protection of threatened species. While the land is not Council managed, we are actively investigating the reported vegetation removal and assisting relevant authorities with their enquiries.
We will continue to monitor this matter and encourage community members to report any sightings of distressed wildlife to the appropriate rescue services.
