The Australian Reptile Park has secured a major $210,000 sponsorship from long-time partner CSL Seqirus, funding a new three-year program focused on venom education, bite and sting first aid, and public safety.
Announced at the Park’s Weigel Venom Centre on the NSW Central Coast, the partnership will expand education initiatives for school groups, visitors, and the wider community, helping more Australians understand how to stay safe around venomous animals.
This investment strengthens one of Australia’s most important life-saving programs. The Australian Reptile Park is the primary supplier of raw venom used to produce antivenom for all Australian terrestrial venomous snakes and the funnel-web spider. With more than 200 venomous snakes onsite, trained keepers milk the animals every two weeks, continuing a program that has helped save thousands of lives across the country.
The partnership between the Australian Reptile Park and CSL Seqirus dates back to the 1950s, when the Park first began supplying venom for antivenom production. Today, that collaboration has contributed to saving more than 25,000 lives.
“This funding allows us to take our education programs to the next level. Every year, thousands of Australians encounter venomous animals, and knowing what to do in those first critical moments can save a life,” Mr Faulkner said.
The new funding will drive a series of education initiatives, including school-based programs, visitor experiences, and targeted training on bite and sting first aid. It also builds on the success of the Bites and Stings app, launched in November 2025, which provides clear and accessible first aid guidance for Australians encountering venomous animals.
“Our partnership with CSL Seqirus oes back more than 70 years, and together we’ve helped save over 25,000 lives. This next step focuses on making sure more people have the knowledge and confidence to respond in an emergency.”
Australian Reptile Park CEO Liz Gabriel said the sponsorship will expand the Park’s reach into schools and communities.
“Education is one of the most effective tools we have. This program allows us to deliver practical and engaging safety education to local schools and visitors, helping people better understand Australia’s wildlife and how to stay safe around it,” Mrs Gabriel said.
Central Coast Mayor Lawrie McKinna welcomed the announcement and highlighted the Park’s impact on the region.
“What the Reptile Park does for the Central Coast is amazing. It brings in around 250,000 visitors every year. This funding is incredible not just for the Park, but for all of Australia.”
CSL Seqirus Vice President Manufacturing and Site Head Simon Buensch said the partnership plays a key role in both prevention and treatment.
“We have been manufacturing antivenoms in Melbourne for almost 100 years, and the Australian Reptile Park is a crucial venom partner for this life-saving program,” Mr Buensch said.
“Antivenoms are critical emergency medicines, but the goal is always prevention. Strong education helps people avoid bites and stings and know what to do in an emergency. When prevention is not possible, this collaboration continues to improve the science behind antivenom production.”
Visitors to the Australian Reptile Park can see this work in action at the Weigel Venom Centre, where the team carries out regular venom milking and shares the importance of antivenom with the public.
Australians are encouraged to download the free Bites and Stings app for up-to-date information and first aid guidance before heading outdoors.
Download the free Australian Bites & Stings App now!
