The Department of Primary Industries (DPI) has warned of a rapid increase in rabbit numbers across Victoria this summer – and landholders need to act now.

DPI Biosecurity Manager for Established Invasive Animals, John Matthews, said data indicates rabbit numbers are starting to rise from a 15 year low.

A number of landowners in the Glenlyon and Lauriston areas have had Infringement Notices issued for failure to control gorse on their properties.

Department of Primary Industries (DPI) Biosecurity Officer Martin Deering said the landowners were fined because of their inaction in controlling gorse.

“The Glenlyon and Lauriston communities sought assistance from DPI to deal with poor landowner performance in relation to gorse control,” Mr Deering said.