The use of the pest control poison 1080 has been formally discontinued in operations across NBC-managed land, including areas connected to Manly.
The decision followed an 11–3 vote, confirming that the toxin will no longer be used on land managed by the council. The policy formalised an existing practice, as the chemical had not been used in the local government area since 2023.
Background To 1080 Use In Manly And Northern Beaches
Sodium fluoroacetate, commonly known as 1080, has previously been used to control invasive fox populations in parts of the Northern Beaches.
In 2015, a major fox attack in Manly significantly affected the area’s endangered little penguin population, bringing attention to the challenges of managing invasive predators in the region.
Information published on the issue states the poison affects an animal’s central nervous system once ingested. Death may occur between five and 48 hours after a lethal amount is consumed.
Records show the toxin had been deployed in previous years across multiple bushland sites in the Northern Beaches, including operations documented in 2018, 2019, 2020 and 2023.
Alternative Pest Control Methods
Material discussed during the decision-making process noted that other pest control techniques are already used by staff.
These include shooting, trapping and den fumigation, which target specific animals rather than relying on baiting programs.
Incident Renewed Attention In 2026
The issue gained renewed attention in January 2026 after a dog died from ingesting 1080 bait on nearby land managed by the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS).
The incident prompted renewed discussion about the use of the toxin on council-managed land across the Northern Beaches.
Community campaign groups also reported significant public engagement before the vote, including thousands of emails sent ahead of the decision.
Scope Of The Ban
The decision applies to land managed by NBC, which includes parks, reserves and other public areas connected to Manly.
However, the poison remains permitted on land managed by other authorities under state law.
Areas such as Sydney Harbour National Park in Manly, North Head, and Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park can still use 1080 as part of pest management programs.
Information cited during the debate indicated there are 178 active 1080 programs operated by NPWS across New South Wales.
What Happens Next
The decision means 1080 will no longer be used in council operations on council-managed land across the Northern Beaches, including locations connected to Manly.
Pest control in surrounding bushland may still continue under other land managers responsible for wildlife management across the region.
Published 15-Mar-2026
