Govt backing for $2.4m Queensland shark behaviour research

Queensland’s Department of Primary Industries is set to progress a $2.4 million research project to better understand the state’s shark population and behaviour, following the allocation of funding from the State Government.

It will be the first study of its kind carried out for shark management in Queensland and will be delivered in two stages, with the first stage having begun and on track to be completed by February 2027:

• Stage 1 examines key biological attributes of a range of shark species, including bull sharks and tiger sharks, to understand how east coast populations respond to pressures such as fishing, including DNA analysis of breeding populations and past impacts.
• Stage 2 is due in 2028 and will map the stock structure of bull sharks and the almost identical pigeye shark through tagging, acoustic tracking and stable isotope analysis, methods that can even link pups back to their mothers. 

The research will also examine how the Shark Control Program has affected shark populations since it began in 1962. 

Minister for Primary Industries, Tony Perrett said the research was helping further position Queensland as a world leader in shark management. 

“This is the first study of its kind for shark management in Queensland, and it will give us the most complete picture of these species we’ve ever had,” Minister Perrett said. 

“I have said time and time again, the best science must inform our actions when it comes to fisheries. 

“Importantly, this research contributes to our government’s strong view that swimmer safety must take priority over all other factors. 

“This research means we can keep protecting swimmers while making sure our shark management is based on facts, not guesswork.” 

Member for Caloundra, Kendall Hatcher said local families and beachgoers would benefit from the local research.

“Caloundra locals know how important our beaches are to our way of life, and it’s great to see the Crisafulli Government backing the science that will help keep them safe for generations to come,” she said.

“The Sunshine Coast’s reputation as a safe place to enjoy some of our world’s best beaches is what underpins our communities and the many small and family business that rely on it. 

“This kind of research means decisions about our beaches are based on real evidence, not guesswork, and I’m proud to see this work underway.” 

This research delivers on Action 10 of the Government’s Shark Management Plan 2025 to 2029. 

Find out more about the Shark Control Program.