Possum Laws in Victoria: What Ballarat Owners Can and Cannot Do

• All possums are protected under the Wildlife Act 1975 (DEECA).
• Common brushtail possums living in buildings may be cage-trapped by the owner or occupier, a building manager or a licensed wildlife controller.
• Use a trap that cannot injure the animal (mesh under 19 mm recommended). Check it within two hours of sunrise, and keep a trapped possum covered and quiet.
• Release on the same property, within 50 m of capture, after sunset on the day of capture. If that is not reasonably possible, take it to a registered vet for euthanasia within 24 hours, at the trapper's cost.
• Relocation is prohibited. The City of Ballarat calls it illegal and inhumane.
• Ringtail possums cannot be trapped without a permit.
• Penalties apply. Check DEECA's current page before acting.

Ballarat Possum Removal is a referral service and does not give legal advice.

Sources

• https://www.wildlife.vic.gov.au/managing-wildlife/possums
• https://www.vic.gov.au/wildlife-controller-licence-guide/wildlife-controller-licence-conditions
• https://www.ballarat.vic.gov.au/community/pets-and-animals/wildlife