General News
16 December, 2025
New ‘people-first’ croc laws
PEOPLE are to come first instead of crocodiles as the Queensland Government introduces new laws to stop their dominance of waterways.
Under changes to the state’s crocodile management plan, crocs discovered at sites near Gordonvale and Mareeba can be relocated faster, as well as more patrols in high-risk areas and an expansion of removal zones.
Key changes include:
Three high-use recreation waterholes on the Mulgrave River upstream of Gordonvale to be upgraded to targeted crocodile removal zones, with predator reptiles longer than 2m and all crocodiles displaying dangerous behaviour to be targeted for removal
Barron River near Mareeba will be upgraded to a reportable removal zone, with any crocodile reported by the public to be targeted for removal
The Southedge Dam near Mareeba will be upgraded to a reportable removal zone, with any crocodile reported and found to be removed.
Regional communities will continue to be consulted on the plan, with a designated four-week annual consultation period and updates to be made on a rolling basis.
Environment Minister Andrew Powell said the government had delivered on its promise to prioritise public safety.
“This is a world-class approach built on science, expert advice and what matters most – listening to Queenslanders.
“More patrols and expansion of removal areas will prioritise safety and strike the balance needed for crocodile management in Queensland.”
Member for Mulgrave Terry James said the Mulgrave community had been desperate for a plan that put people first.
“These are popular waterholes where locals like to swim and our plan is making them safer,” he said.
Member for Cook David Kempton said locals had long been calling for a management plan that reflected the needs of their community.
“I’ve backed our community’s call for tougher action on crocodiles and now that is being delivered,” he said.
