A farmer from Victoria has billed the government for damages caused by wild dog attacks.

Farmer Scott Keller has sent an invoice for approximately $40,000 to the Victorian state government. According to him, the farm has lost more than 160 livestock animals as a result of attacks by wild dogs. The damage became significant after the authorities ceased lethal control measures for dingo populations in March 2024.

Scott Keller expressed concerns not only for his livestock but also for the safety of his working dogs and pets. The state opposition stated their intention to reinstate the "unprotection order," which allowed for lethal control, should they win the election in November. Opposition representatives emphasized that the previous policy was effective, and the lack of control has led to an increase in attacks on animals.

In turn, the state government confirmed that it does not provide compensation for livestock deaths caused by predators. An official government spokesperson noted that the authorities recognize the severity of the situation for farmers and are striving to find a balance between protecting livestock and conserving the dingo population. Agencies, including Agriculture Victoria and the Vertebrate Species Management Program, continue to work with agricultural producers affected by predators in northwest Victoria.