SYDNEY (January 27, 2026)—Humane World for Animals Australia is deeply saddened by the Queensland Government’s decision to kill six dingoes on K’gari over the Australia Day long weekend.
News of the government’s actions was announced in a media release from the Minister for the Environment and Tourism’s office on Sunday, following the tragic death of Canadian tourist Piper James last week.
Humane World for Animals Australia offers its deepest condolences to Piper James’ family and friends.
The six dingoes killed are the latest in a long history of persecution of the species on K’gari—despite the island’s cultural and ecological significance and the 5,000 year-long coexistence of the Butchulla people and dingoes on the island.
Minister Andrew Powell said he supported the decision of rangers to kill the dingoes despite any lack of consultation with the area’s Traditional Owners and despite the wishes of Ms James’ parents who have stated to media that a culling of dingoes is the “last thing Piper would want”.
In addition, the Minister has indicated a plan for further culling in the coming days.
Humane World for Animals Australia’s Program Manager, Wildlife, Dr Renae Charalambous said: “Australia needs to move away from killing as the default response to wildlife conflicts. Knee-jerk killing events are not a sustainable solution to complex wildlife challenges.
“This killing of six dingoes is a blow to the genetic health of the island’s small and genetically isolated dingo population. Every animal unnecessarily killed is a significant step toward the extinction of the dingoes on K’gari.
“We’re urging the Queensland Government to put an end to these destructive practices and instead invest in more effective strategies like enhanced public and tourist education, to better manage the risks when holidaying in wild animal habitats, including K’gari.”
ENDS.
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Together, we tackle the root causes of animal cruelty and suffering to create permanent change. With millions of supporters and work happening in over 50 countries, Humane World for Animals—formerly called Humane Society International—addresses the most deeply entrenched forms of animal cruelty and suffering. As the leading voice in the animal protection space, we work to end the cruelest practices, care for animals in crisis and build a stronger animal protection movement. Driving toward the greatest global impact, we aim to achieve the vision behind our name: a more humane world.
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