Wildlife permits, regulations and funding
Permits and regulations
Queensland's native wildlife is protected by legislation that aims to conserve biodiversity by protecting wildlife and its habitat.
All native birds, reptiles, mammals and amphibians are protected, along with some invertebrates (certain butterflies, spiders and scorpions), freshwater fish and the grey nurse shark. Other aquatic species are protected by the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, and the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority.
A licensing system helps us protect native wildlife and exotic species. By regulating the taking, keeping, using or moving of wildlife for commercial, recreational or other purposes we ensure we maintain viable wild populations of plants and animals.
The type of licence or permit you need depends on:
- the wildlife species
- the type of activity
- the tenure of the area (i.e. national park, state forest, private property) in which you plan to undertake your activity.
Getting approval
Apply for a Recreational Wildlife licence to keep wildlife for recreational purposes.
Download an application form for other activities relating to wildlife. The form tells you what information you need to provide to get approval.
Find out what permits you need in a Commonwealth area in Queensland.
Legal obligations
Our information sheets and guidelines describe your legal obligations.
If you hold a permit or licence, you may have to complete a return of operations (summary of the activities conducted under the licence).
Funding
Koala Rescue and Rehabilitation Grants Program
We provide up to $800,000 over 4 years to organisations that deliver koala rescue, transport or rehabilitation services.
NatureAssist
NatureAssist is a grants program where money is paid to landholders who are williong to sign a nature refuge agreement over part or all of the property, conserving it as a habitat for wildlife.
Not all applications are accepted. NatureAssist is a competitive tender process and only the tenders that offer the best value for money in protecting and managing conservation values are chosen.
More information on the NatureAssist funding program is available on the Department of Environment and Heritage Protection website.
