Releasing possums in the Portland Botanic Gardens

Published on 12 July 2023

It has come to our attention that community members are releasing possums into the Botanic Gardens. 

The Portland Botanic Gardens are one of the oldest botanic gardens established in Australia (1853). The gardens have outstanding historic value and are an important asset to the community.

Increasing the possum population in the Gardens is causing extensive damage to our plants, some of our oldest, most beloved trees are suffering due to the increase in possums. It is also stressing the existing possum populations.

We urge you to not release possums into the Botanic Gardens. 

Please help us preserve the historical, social and environmental value of our Gardens for generations to come, and to ensure local possum populations are not adversely affected.

Possums are also protected under the Wildlife Act 1975, with penalties of up to $9,246 under the Wildlife Act 1975 and/or 2 years imprisonment or $44,380 under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Regulation 2016.

Trapped possums must be released on the property which they are captured, and there are no other legal avenues to release possums.

For more information, please follow the link https://www.wildlife.vic.gov.au/managing-wildlife/possums