We’re collaborating with some of Australia’s top shark scientists to deliver important research to assess the impact of the state’s Shark Control Program on key species, including bull and tiger sharks.
Fisheries Queensland is leading the $2.4 million project, funded under Action 10 of the Queensland Shark Management Plan 2025-2029. This long-range research is the first time this type of study has been carried out for shark management in Queensland. The research will be delivered in 2 stages:
- Stage 1 has begun and is on track to be completed by February 2027.
- This first stage will examine key biological attributes of a range of shark species, including bull sharks and tiger sharks, which will help scientists understand how shark populations on the Queensland east coast might respond to different pressures such as fishing.
- This research will also analyse shark DNA to improve our understanding of the bull and tiger shark breeding populations, historical population changes and the impacts of past man-made pressures.
- Stage 2 is due for completion in 2028 and will describe the stock structure of bull sharks and the almost identical pigeye shark. This stage includes tagging and tracking sharks along the east coast.
The Shark Control Program operates across Queensland, including Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Bundaberg, Gladstone, Capricorn Coast, Mackay, Townsville and Cairns.
Learn more about the Queensland Shark Management Plan 2025-2029.