The project will consider both market-related issues such as changes in water treatment costs, and non-market costs and benefits such as changes in recreational fishing experiences and biodiversity.

We will identify the benefits and costs to different industries and community groups relating to reducing carp numbers.

While some economic analyses have been completed through earlier studies, this work will provide the most comprehensive analysis and consider market-related and non-market factors. 

My co-investigator, Professor Jeff Bennett, is looking at non-market benefits and costs and says while the value the community might enjoy from carp control with reference to transactions in markets will be observed, they will also look beyond market values.

He is expecting that as a result of the carp control process we may see increased native fish abundance and diversity, aesthetic improvements associated with clearer waters and that may translate to recreational benefits. 

However, we will also look at the costs associated with carp control such as the loss of carp fishing opportunities. This program must take into consideration the needs of all stakeholders and use this information to make informed and educated recommendations to government. 

The National Carp Control Plan national co-ordinator Matt Barwick says the research will help determine the likely benefits and costs of possible release of the carp virus.

The aim of the NCCP is to explore how best to help return our waterways to healthier, more vibrant ecosystems through carp control, and in doing so, improve water quality for drinking, fishing and recreational activities. 

In addition to research a comprehensive stakeholder engagement plan will be undertaken over the next 18 months to consult with, and seek feedback from, the general public and special interest groups.

The NCCP will use world-class research to inform recommendations to government, as well as feedback from communities, councils and special interest groups throughout Australia. 

Every individual will have the opportunity to share their thoughts and recommendations, whether that is via face-to-face meetings in regional locations, via their local council or representative body, or directly through our NCCP engagement tools. 

The NCCP is a process, and we encourage feedback and input from communities to help shape our recommendations. 

The National Carp Control Plan is being prepared to explore the release of the carp virus Cyprinid herpesvirus 3. The Fisheries Research and Development Corporation (FRDC) is leading the $15 million planning process on behalf of the federal government.

At the end of 2018, the FRDC will provide the completed NCCP to the federal government, who will then decide whether to release the virus or not. For more information visit www.carp.gov.au

Peter Chudleigh,

principal investigator, 

Agtrans Research

NATIONAL Child Protection Week runs from September 3 to 9. 

In this week, we take the time to reflect on child protection issues and promote the wellbeing of our young people. 

I am asking for a world without child abuse, and we can only achieve that though creating safe environments for our kids.

Reports of child abuse are overwhelming and give witness to the lack of accountability for adults who abuse young people.

Sadly, some communities are looking the other way, ignoring the abuse of children because this is the easiest option.

People don’t want to get involved in notifying assaults on our young people because of the fear of the consequences from the perpetrators.

Nothing is more important than protecting our vulnerable children from abuse and neglect.

Child abuse goes beyond the tears and pain experienced in childhood.

Victims endure a lifetime of psychological and emotional distress, they often become drug users to kill the pain of abuse, attempt suicide, self-mutilate and have major trust issues.

We, as a society, must ensure that we provide our children with a safe and supportive environment, so that they have the opportunity to reach their full potential.

My organisation, Youth Off The Streets, is dedicated to helping victims of child abuse through extensive programs as well as our trained youth workers, case workers and psychologists.

We strive to offer a full curriculum of care that is provided on a case by case basis, ensuring our young people get the care they so desperately need.

We as a community need to listen to what is happening to our young people, speak up and get help when our children are in trouble.

Together we can protect some of Australia’s most vulnerable young people from experiencing this trauma. 

Father Chris Riley,

chief executive and founder, 

Youth Off The Streets