SA's $4bn Livestock Shield: Dog Fence Rebuild Halfway, But Wild Dog Attacks Persist
SA Dog Fence Rebuild On Track, But Attacks Continue

A multimillion-dollar project to rebuild South Australia's legendary Dog Fence is progressing steadily, with the goal of safeguarding the state's massive livestock industry now more than halfway to completion. However, authorities report that one region continues to face significant challenges from persistent wild dog attacks.

Fence Rebuild Reaches Major Milestone

The ambitious reconstruction of the 2110-kilometre-long barrier is a critical piece of infrastructure for pastoralists. According to the latest update, 1074 kilometres of the fence have already been rebuilt. The remaining 526 kilometres of work are either currently underway or have been contracted out, keeping the extensive project firmly on schedule.

This colossal undertaking, managed by Primary Industries and Regions SA (PIRSA), is designed to fortify the state's primary defence against wild dogs and dingoes. The fence is a lifeline for the sheep and cattle industries, which are collectively valued at an estimated $4 billion annually.

Persistent Threat in One Region

Despite the encouraging progress on the physical barrier, the battle against wild predators is not yet won. Officials have confirmed that one specific part of South Australia is still grappling with a troubling number of attacks from wild dogs. These incidents underscore the ongoing threat to livestock and the financial and emotional toll they take on farming communities.

The continued attacks highlight that while a robust fence is a vital tool, it must be part of a broader, integrated pest management strategy. Vigilance and maintenance of the newly rebuilt sections are paramount to ensure its long-term effectiveness.

Protecting a National Economic Asset

The Dog Fence is more than just a wire barrier; it is an essential economic asset for South Australia and the nation. Its successful rebuild and maintenance are crucial for the viability of thousands of farming businesses and the security of Australia's food supply chains.

The update on the project was provided by Charlie Gilchrist and was current as of December 3, 2025. As work continues on the remaining sections, all eyes will be on the fence's ability to further reduce the impact of wild dogs and deliver a strong return on this multimillion-dollar public investment.