The Hon. JOHN ROBERTSON: On 28 October 2010 the Hon. Robert Brown asked me a question in my capacity as representing the Minister for Climate Change and the Environment. I have been provided with the following information:

The number of wild deer removed is as follows:

· 2002 - 114
· 2003 - 113
· 2004 - 190
· 2005 - 196
· 2006 - 153
· 2007 - 95
· 2008 - 131
· 2009 - 81

In 2002 and 2003, the cost per animal was approximately $490. This decreased to $255 by 2006, and is currently approximately $308. Costs increase as it becomes more difficult to access a smaller number of deer in a relatively rugged and inaccessible environment.

The deer eradication program in the Royal National Park region has been highly successful.
The National Parks and Wildlife Service has reported that deer sightings have decreased during patrols and deer control operations over the last eight years and rangers have observed rainforest regeneration in areas previously impacted by deer. Government marksmen also advise that it is becoming more difficult to find deer and that they now occur in smaller groups.

The National Parks and Wildlife Service does not receive data on deer involved in motor vehicle accidents. This information is recorded by either the NSW Police or the Roads and Traffic Authority. However, reports from National Parks and Wildlife Service staff and the public indicate that the number of deer related accidents has significantly decreased—the National Parks and Wildlife Service is not aware of a single incident within the last two months.