Wildlife permit assessment changes

From 27 March 2025, the following protected animal permit types will undergo a manual assessment process; they will no longer be automatically issued on application:

• Standard Rehabilitation Permits (care of least concern sick, injured and orphaned protected animals)
• Damage Mitigation Permits (non-lethal remove and relocate)
• Dealer Licences (processed products).

Following a review of automatically issued wildlife authorities, we identified opportunities to strengthen the assessment process for some more complex protected animal permits.

The change will allow experienced assessment officers to more closely consider if the planned activities outlined in the application are safe and appropriate for our protected animals as well as permit holders and the community.

What these changes mean for existing permit holders

• Applications for these permits now undergo a manual assessment process; they will no longer be issued automatically on application.
• The department has added extra resources to assess applications however the change in assessment process will result in longer timeframes for those applying for these permits. We will be working to assess applications as quickly as possible within the 40 business days as provided for in the legislation.

Arrangements for permits that expire on or before 31 May 2025

To ensure continuity for existing permit holders with permits that expire on or before 31 May 2025, the department recommend that applications are submitted as soon as is possible to ensure these can be processed in a timely manner. Permit holders are encouraged to contact the department if they fall into this category.

There is no change to the existing application process. Applications can continue to be made using the Online Services system. Please be assured that the department is working to ensure timely processing of applications in advance of expiry.

New permit holders

New permit holders who are submitting an application for the first time should allow up to 40 business days for their application to be assessed and processed.

The department has added extra resources to assess applications however the change in assessment process will result in longer timeframes for those applying for these permits. We will be working to assess applications as quickly as possible within the 40 business days as provided for in the legislation.

Further information

If you have any further questions, please email wildlife@des.qld.gov.au