What is causing the rabbit problem in coastal Australia?

According to experts, a benign virus called RCV-A1 may be providing cross-immunity to the deadly calicivirus, Australia's main biological control against rabbits.

How much damage have the rabbits caused for local residents?

Residents like Harold Jackson have reported spending close to $20,000 to repair damage to their gardens, while others face ongoing issues with the burrowing pests.

What is the Bass Coast shire council doing to address the rabbit crisis?

The council has voted to develop a new eradication plan, admitting that 15 years and $180,000 in previous control efforts have failed to curb the problem.

Home / Environment / Coastal Residents Battling Rabbit Invasion: Thousands in Damages and Counting

Coastal Residents Battling Rabbit Invasion: Thousands in Damages and Counting

9 Nov

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Summary

Coastal residents face thousands in damages from exploding rabbit populations
Experts warn rabbits may be becoming immune to Australia's main biological control
Coordinated eradication efforts across government agencies have failed so far

Coastal Residents Battling Rabbit Invasion: Thousands in Damages and Counting

As of November 9th, 2025, coastal residents in southeast Australia are facing a growing crisis as rabbit populations have exploded to plague-like proportions. Locals like Peter Bradley and Harold Jackson report spending thousands of dollars to repair damage caused by the burrowing pests, with Jackson's garden in Cowes costing close to $20,000 in repairs.

The surge in coastal rabbit numbers has prompted the Bass Coast shire council to unanimously vote to develop a new eradication plan last month, admitting that 15 years and $180,000 in professional control efforts have failed. Experts believe the issue may be linked to a benign virus called RCV-A1 that provides cross-immunity to the deadly calicivirus, Australia's main biological weapon against rabbits.