WoolProducers animal health and welfare policy advisor, Alex MacLennan, says savannah cats - an exotic hybrid cross between a domestic cat and the African Serval - had been a cause for concern for graziers given the impact they are already feeling from hybrid wild dogs.

"There is all ready an established industry for wolf or coyote hybrid dogs in America, if they were to be imported to Australia the potential impact they could have on our wild dog genetics and subsequently the sheep population would be dire," Mr MacLennan said.

Environment Minister Peter Garrett has said he would "not hesitate to use his powers under the EPBC Act to prevent the live import of any species or breed that poses a significant risk to the Australian environment or wildlife".

WPA has endorsed the Minister’s decision and the scientific assessment to assess the risks of the importation of these hybrid wildcats.