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About this document
These guidelines describe best-practice approaches for the safe management of stranded large whales.
The guidelines apply to whales that are 6 metres or greater in length.
The highest priority in managing stranded whales are:
- animal welfare
- public safety
Euthanasia is often the most humane outcome.
These guidelines cover:
- incident management
- stranding assessment
- euthanasia methods
- data collection.
State and territory government agencies are responsible for the management of stranded whales. They should consider these guidelines in their policies and plans.
We consulted with technical and species experts in developing this document.