Laws protecting feral horses in Kosciuszko National Park, introduced in 2018 to preserve the brumies’ “heritage value,” are being repealed following widespread environmental concerns. The Kosciuszko Wild Horse Heritage Act led to a surge in feral horse numbers, reaching up to 21,700 at one point, causing significant environmental damage. Independent MP Joe McGirr’s bill to repeal the act, supported by both the Labor government and Liberals, passed the lower house, aiming to prioritize native species and prevent feral horses from receiving special protection.

Environmental groups and political leaders have welcomed the repeal as a necessary step to protect the park’s fragile alpine ecosystem. The bill reflects a shift in public and political opinion, emphasizing science-based management over heritage protection for feral horses. With horse numbers now reduced to between 1,579 and 5,639, ongoing management strategies like sterilization and rehoming are expected to prevent future population explosions and environmental harm.