Published on 14 July 2021
From 1 September 2021, netting used to protect household fruit-trees, vegetable gardens, or other fruiting plants must have a mesh size of 5mm x 5mm or less at full stretch.
Netting used to protect household fruit or vegetable harvest will need to comply with this new mandatory requirement introduced under Victoria’s Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Regulations 2019.
Any existing household fruit netting that does not meet this specification must be replaced with appropriate netting before the 1 September 2021 commencement date.
The use of appropriate mesh-sized netting supports a productive harvest while also protecting vulnerable wildlife from harm. Netting with a large mesh size is more likely to entangle birds, possums or flying foxes.
There are also alternatives to netting, such as fruit bags that are placed over individual branches.
Old netting, when discarded, can still be an entanglement risk. It is recommended that old netting is placed into a strong biodegradable bag before putting into landfill.
Further advice on netting requirements, protecting fruit trees and wildlife, and helping injured wildlife, is available at animalwelfare.vic.gov.au/netting or by calling 136 186.