Rabbit Control

Published on Monday, 3 November 2025 at 10:31:18 AM

Overview

The City manages European rabbit populations through targeted seasonal control programs designed to reduce damage to native bushland and minimise nuisance impacts on residents. 

The City normally undertakes two rabbit control programs each year — in Autumn and Spring — using Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease Virus (RHDV or calicivirus). RHDV is a rabbit-specific biological control method that does not affect pets, livestock, native wildlife or people. Domestic rabbits can be vaccinated against RHDV through a local veterinarian.

Rabbit Control Update – November 2025

RHDV is currently unavailable as a control measure for Spring 2025 due to supply issues affecting both the K5 strain and other variants. Supplies are expected to return by February 2026, after which RHDV release will recommence in Autumn 2026.

As a result, the City’s Spring rabbit control program will be limited to the inspection and treatment of active rabbit warrens. Contractors will undertake warren fumigation in areas of confirmed rabbit activity, as this is the only control method currently safe and practical in urban reserves.

The City remains committed to managing rabbit impacts across reserves and local roads and will resume biological control activities as soon as RHDV supply returns.