The Finocchiaro CLP Government is today celebrating World Crocodile Day, shining a spotlight on one of the Northern Territory’s most iconic animals and a key part of our unique Territory lifestyle, the mighty crocodile.
Held annually on 17 June, World Crocodile Day is a global initiative that encourages education, awareness, and appreciation of crocodiles, which are synonymous with the Northern Territory.
To mark the day, Minister for Parks and Wildlife and Minister for Tourism and Hospitality Marie-Clare Boothby, visited Crocosaurus Cove in Darwin to feed some young saltwater crocodiles, watch one of the giant reptiles being fed, and hold a baby saltie.
Ms Boothby said crocodiles were not just a key part of our natural environment, but an important part of the Territory’s unique lifestyle, serving as a major drawcard for tourism and helping support local jobs and businesses.
“Territorians love their crocs; they are a true Territory icon and an important part of our economy and unique tourism offering,” Ms Boothby said.
“People come from all over the world to see and experience our crocs here in the Northern Territory – whether it’s on a jumping croc cruise, at a wildlife park, or through ethical and sustainable croc farming, they’re an essential part of our identity.”
“It’s great that places like Crocosaurus Cove can showcase the safe and exciting ways Territorians and tourists can connect with these magnificent reptiles, while teaching them how to BeCrocwise, right in the heart of the city.”
Ms Boothby also reaffirmed the CLP Government’s commitment to keeping crocodiles at the heart of Territory life, including restoring the right for Territorians to own a crocodile while ensuring safety and animal welfare standards.
“In December 2024, we announced we were reversing the previous Labor government’s decision to stamp out the ownership permit system and restore the right for Territorians to own a croc as a pet,” said Ms Boothby.
“Responsible owners have the right to own a crocodile with a permit, and opportunities like these are central to our Territory way of life, because if you can’t own a pet croc in the Northern Territory, then where can you?”
“During our year of action, certainty and security, we are proud that Territorians can now apply for permits to own a pet crocodile once again.”
Crocosaurus Cove Animals and Operations Manager Charlotte Leyshon said the team at Crocosaurus Cove celebrated crocs not just on World Crocodile Day, but every day.
“We’ve got more than 100,000 crocodiles in the Territory, which are considered to be one of the apex predators of the world and the NT does a really good job living life alongside them, because I believe we are the best example of human-crocodile cohabitation in the world,” she said.
“At Crocosaurus Cove we’re very passionate about introducing visitors in the NT to our iconic Saltwater Crocodile, educating them and showing them what they can do before they go off and explore our beautiful national parks.”
There are currently 70 crocodile permits in the NT, with six permit applications received this year since the CLP Government brought back permits.
