The State Government and Crime Stoppers SA have teamed up to launch a new campaign to tackle the growing illegal trade in native South Australian wildlife including birds, snakes, lizards, frogs and small marsupials.
The Stolen, Smuggled and Suffering campaign is aimed at highlighting the damage caused by crimes against wildlife and the strict penalties that apply for those caught with or illegally trading native fauna.
It is illegal to keep native wildlife without a permit in South Australia and those found in possession of native animals without a permit face penalties of up to $10,000.
In South Australia, several native species are commonly trafficked or illegally kept as pets, especially reptiles, birds, frogs and various small marsupials.
The campaign, being spearheaded by Crime Stoppers, includes traditional, social and digital media advertising aimed at educating the public about the laws governing wildlife in our state.
Crime Stoppers South Australia CEO Nigel Smart said the public played a critical role in protecting native species.
"What some people may not realise is that keeping native wildlife without the proper permit not only endangers the welfare of the animals but also undermines conservation efforts," Mr Smart said.
He wanted to assure South Australians that information about illegal wildlife possession could be shared anonymously with Crime Stoppers through a secure online portal, without fear of then needing to make a statement or go to court.
"That means whether it’s a neighbour, acquaintance, or business involved in the illegal trade or ownership of native animals, you can report it without fear," Mr Smart said.
"Your tip could be the crucial piece of the puzzle that protects vulnerable species."
University of Adelaide's Katie Smith, Research Program Manager at the Wildlife Crime Research Hub, said wildlife trafficking was the fourth-largest organised crime globally, worth more than $450 billion a year.
"Tip-offs to Crime Stoppers can provide crucial intel to investigate illegal trade and provide insight into the structure of crime networks," she said.
For more information, visit Stolen, Smuggled and Suffering - native wildlife campaign.
