Calicivirus release in Tasmania

• Biosecurity Tasmania has completed its calicivirus (RHDV1-K5) delivery program for 2026. This follows a deterioration of weather conditions, which impact the success of virus release; and the sighting of young rabbits in some areas.
  

• Contemporary research suggests that calicivirus is most effective when used as part of an integrated rabbit control program. Using additional rabbit control methods will help lower numbers as far as possible and prevent reinfestation, reducing the need for repeated control operations.

• Now is the time to review results of any rabbit control implemented on your property and begin planning your wild rabbit management plan for the next year.
  

• If you had calicivirus released on, or within two kilometres of your property this year, it is unlikely to be available to you next year. This is to reduce the risk of resistance and eventual immunity to the virus within rabbit populations. For further information see our Rabbit Control Methods​ page.
  

​​Calicivirus in Tasmania

While landowners are responsible for the control of rabbits on their property, Biosecurity Tasmania may release calicivirus to assist landowner rabbit management efforts where conditions are suitable, usually during Autumn.

A calicivirus release will not eliminate every rabbit at a site. Some rabbits exposed to the virus will survive and develop antibodies to the virus. Surviving rabbits can pass these antibodies on to future offspring.

This is why we encourage landowners to use other co​ntrol methods following a calicivirus release as part of their planning. This will help 'mop up' any rabbits that survive exposure to calicivirus and reduce 'safe harbours' for rabbits on your property.​

If landowners require assistance in developing a wild rabbit management plan, they can contact Biosecurity Tasmania at biosecurity.tasmania@nre.tas.gov.au or on 6165 3777 to discuss rabbit management options for their property.

​More information