The Queensland government has admitted it doesn't know if crocodile numbers are rising or falling in parts of the state.
The admission comes three days after a fatal croc attack on tourist Cindy Waldron during a late-night dip on a beach in the Daintree National Park, north of Cairns.
Environment Minister Dr Steven Miles says it's time to get a proper handle on what croc numbers are doing in rivers and estuaries from Cape York south to Gladstone.
He says next week's budget will include an extra $5.8 million over three years for crocodile management, including comprehensive population surveys in those areas.
"We don't know with enough scientific accuracy if crocodile numbers are increasing or decreasing in some river systems and in light of a suspected crocodile attack in the Daintree we need to know," he said on Wednesday.
"We need a scientifically sound understanding of crocodile numbers and trends."
He says the government needs regular and reliable data if it's to properly manage crocodiles, particularly in areas where people also live and visit.
Survey work will be carried out in rivers and estuaries at night, when tidal conditions increase the chance of spotting crocs.
"This will be the most comprehensive crocodile population survey ever in Queensland and data will be compared to figures going back as far as 1979," Dr Miles said.
"There are serious public safety concerns associated with croc country, and we need to explore ways to live side-by-side with these animals and protect crocodile populations in the wild."
The government is currently reviewing crocodile management policies and has invited people to have their say on issues including public safety, and the capture and removal of problem animals.
