Yes — possums are protected native wildlife in every Australian state and territory under state and federal wildlife legislation, meaning it is illegal to harm, kill, or relocate a possum without a current wildlife management licence.

This protection covers all common species, including the brushtail possum, ringtail possum, and various pygmy possum species. The specific laws, licence requirements, and penalties vary by state, but the principle is the same everywhere: possums are protected animals and cannot be handled without authorisation.

This guide breaks down the legal framework for every Australian state and territory, so you know exactly what the law says where you live.

State-by-State Possum Protection Laws

Each state regulates possum handling through its own wildlife legislation. Here is the breakdown by state and territory.

New South Wales

Possums are protected under the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016. A licence from the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is required to trap, handle, or relocate a possum. Unauthorised handling carries a maximum fine of $11,000. Homeowners in Sydney can find licensed operators through Sydney possum removal services that hold the required NPWS permits.

Victoria

Possums are protected under the Wildlife Act 1975. A licence from the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) is required. Maximum penalty is $9,900. Authorised wildlife controllers in Melbourne possum removal hold the necessary DEECA licences to handle possums lawfully.

Queensland

Possums are protected under the Nature Conservation Act 1992. A licence from the Department of Environment and Science (DES) is required. Queensland has the strictest penalties in the country — up to $25,740 for unauthorised handling. Licensed Brisbane possum removal operators carry the required DES permits under the Nature Conservation Act.

Western Australia

Possums are protected under the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016 (WA). A licence from the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) is required. Fines can reach $10,000 for unauthorised handling. Perth possum removal services operate under DBCA-issued wildlife management licences.

South Australia

Possums are protected under the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1972. A permit from the Department for Environment and Water is required to handle or relocate a possum. Maximum penalty is $5,000. Operators must comply with the Act's provisions for protected wildlife management.

Australian Capital Territory

Possums are protected under the Nature Conservation Act 2014. A licence from the ACT Parks and Conservation Service is required. Unauthorised handling carries penalties under the Act, with maximum fines comparable to NSW at approximately $8,000.

Tasmania

Possums are protected under the Nature Conservation Act 2002. A wildlife permit from the Department of Natural Resources and Environment Tasmania (NRE Tas) is required. Fines for unauthorised handling can reach $4,000. Note that Tasmania has different classifications for some possum species under the Act.

Northern Territory

Possums are protected under the Territory Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act. A permit from the Parks and Wildlife Commission is required. Penalties for unauthorised handling are governed under the Act with fines up to $7,000.

What Constitutes Illegal Activity Under These Laws

Understanding what is illegal helps you stay on the right side of the law and avoid actions that could result in fines or legal proceedings.

• Trapping without a licence. Setting a possum trap of any kind without the appropriate state-issued wildlife management licence is illegal in every state. This includes homemade traps, cage traps, and one-way flap devices installed without authorisation.
• Relocation beyond legal distance. Most states require possums to be released no more than 50 metres from the capture site. Releasing a possum outside this radius is illegal and can result in significant fines.
• Harm or injury. Causing harm, injury, or death to a possum — whether intentional or through negligent handling — is a serious offence under state wildlife legislation.
• Keeping in captivity. Possums cannot be kept as pets or held in captivity without a specialised licence. This applies even for short periods.
• Disturbing a den without a licence. Blocking access to a den site, removing nesting material, or disturbing a possum in its den without the appropriate licence is illegal in most states.
• Using unregistered pesticides. Using mothballs, poisons, or chemical repellents for possum control is illegal under the Australian Pesticides Act and state wildlife laws simultaneously.

The safest approach is always to engage a licensed possum removal operator who holds the appropriate permits for your state. Our team holds the required licences and permits across all four states we serve — see our licences and accreditations for details.

A licensed possum removal service will ensure the job is handled lawfully, humanely, and with the proper documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are possums protected in Australia?

Yes. Possums are protected native wildlife under state and territory legislation in every Australian state and territory. It is illegal to harm, trap, relocate, or handle a possum without a current wildlife management licence. Penalties range from $4,000 in Tasmania to $25,740 in Queensland.

Can I remove a possum from my roof legally?

Not yourself. Only a licensed possum removal operator with the appropriate state-issued wildlife licence can legally remove a possum. Homeowners who attempt DIY removal risk fines and prosecution. The legal process involves inspection, humane removal using approved methods, and proper roof proofing.

What happens if I kill a possum accidentally?

Accidental harm or death of a possum should be reported to your state's wildlife authority. In cases where a possum dies due to negligent handling or trapping, you may face penalties under state wildlife legislation. Always engage a licensed operator to avoid this situation.

Is it legal to release a possum in a different area?

No. Most states require possums to be released no more than 50 metres from the capture site. Releasing a possum outside this legal distance is illegal and disrupts the animal's territory and survival. Licensed operators know the legal release requirements in each state.