The Hon. Matthew Swinbourn, Minister for the Environment (WA), Media Release, 26 June 2025

Some of Western Australia’s most unique reptiles have been rescued from smugglers who were attempting to send them interstate through Perth Airport.

In one case, a package containing eight live bobtail lizards destined for Sydney was intercepted, resulting in a $2,500 fine.

In another, 70 reptiles hidden inside two toolboxes were discovered en route to Melbourne.

These animals included five jewelled geckos, 12 pygmy spiney-tailed skinks, 28 Eastern Pilbara spiney-tailed skinks, 22 Western Pilbara spiney-tailed skinks, one crested dragon, and two desert egernia.

The offenders were fined $15,000.

Both convictions followed targeted operations by the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) wildlife officers under the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016.

Investigations revealed the reptiles were destined for the illicit wildlife trade.

In handing down the penalties, the Court stated these were “offences against the community and the community have an expectation that wildlife of the community is adequately protected”.

DBCA wildlife officers urge the public to report any suspicious activity involving native animals.

Information can be provided confidentially to the Wildcare Helpline on 9474 9055.

Comments attributed to the Environment Minister Matthew Swinbourn:

“Trying to smuggle our native wildlife is not only illegal, it’s disgraceful.

“These cases show it won’t be tolerated and that those found engaging in this cowardly behaviour will be prosecuted

“I want to thank our wildlife officers for their vigilance and commitment to bringing these offenders to justice.”