Implementing the 2021 Kosciuszko National Park Wild Horse Heritage Management Plan

Control occurs in accordance with the Kosciuszko National Park Wild Horse Heritage Management Plan.

The plan came into force in November 2021. The National Parks and Wildlife Service commenced on-ground implementation of the plan in February 2022. A summary of the outcome of control programs will be made publicly available from time to time. To protect the safety of National Parks and Wildlife Service staff, contractors and visitors, and the welfare of wild horses, operational details about wild horse control will not be publicly released.

Control program outcomes

Total number of horses removed 24 November 2021 to 30 September 2024

• As noted in the plan, ensuring optimal animal welfare outcomes is an important consideration. All control operations are implemented consistent with relevant Commonwealth and NSW animal welfare legislation, regulations, codes of practice and standard operating procedures.
• ‘Other deaths’ are deaths directly or indirectly related to the passive trapping or temporary holding of wild horses, for example, euthanasia of passively trapped horses with pre-existing injuries or illnesses that prevents transport under the Commonwealth transport standards.

Review into aerial deer operation of 15 February 2022

A review was conducted into a reported public safety incident in relation to the aerial shooting of feral deer on 15 February 2022 in Kosciuszko National Park. The review concluded there was no immediate risk to human safety. However, it identified recommendations to improve systems and procedures around notifications and park closures during shooting operations. Review recommendations have been accepted by the National Parks and Wildlife Service. A summary of the report's findings is available:

Review of aerial deer shooting operations and reported public safety incident on 15 February 2022 in Kosciuszko National Park