History of Agriculture in SA - The introductions begin: 1836–1880

Pest animal and weed control has been a necessity since South Australia was colonised by Europeans in 1836. While initially the colonists’ principal concern was to establish themselves and their communities – supplies of food and water were vital – the activities of settlement required the authorities to take action to prevent specific threats posed by diseases of animals and plants, unwanted animals and plants or the actions of people.

Rabbits are often considered the main pest species, animal or plant that Australia has had to confront. Governor Arthur Phillip came to Australia with five rabbits on the First Fleet in 1788 and 16 rabbits arrived on the vessel Governor Gawler in South Australia in 1840.

This page is a resource covering the introduction of rabbits.