Field & Game Australia: Advocating for the Future of Duck Hunting in Victoria

Field & Game Australia (FGA) is actively engaging with the Victorian Government and the Game Management Authority (GMA) to shape the future of game duck hunting in Victoria. As part of this process, the introduction of Adaptive Harvest Management (AHM) is being discussed as a significant shift toward more science-driven decision-making for hunting seasons and bag limits.

The GMA has been proactive in sharing updates on the anticipated implementation of AHM, including its potential impact on future hunting frameworks. While this transparency is welcome, we recognize that the adoption of AHM comes with challenges, including delays in decision-making and the likelihood of another late season announcement in early 2025.

Our Position: Advocating for Science, Transparency, and Accountability

FGA is committed to representing our members’ interests and ensuring that the future of duck hunting is guided by robust scientific principles and practical management. Our key priorities include:

1. Supporting Adaptive Harvest Management:
   FGA supports the move toward AHM as a data-driven framework for setting seasons and bag limits. This approach prioritizes ecological sustainability while ensuring hunting opportunities are aligned with real-world population dynamics and environmental conditions.
2. Opposing Delays and Subjective Meddling:
   While the GMA has demonstrated leadership in advancing AHM, delays in surveys and announcements continue to frustrate hunters. FGA is advocating for streamlined processes to ensure decisions are timely, transparent, and free from political or ideological interference.
3. Ensuring Departmental Accountability:
   FGA is pushing for clear lines of accountability within government agencies to avoid the inefficiencies caused by multi-departmental involvement. The GMA should take a leading role in overseeing and implementing the framework to ensure consistent and timely outcomes.
4. Timely Surveys and Announcements:
   Late announcements disrupt planning for hunters, regional businesses, and communities. FGA continues to call for realistic timelines that allow for season settings to be finalized well in advance. A more robust and forward-planning model is critical for improving decision-making efficiency.

Acknowledging GMA’s Efforts

The GMA has actively engaged with stakeholders to explain the principles of AHM and its anticipated implementation. While this level of communication is appreciated, the realities of transitioning to a new framework mean that a season announcement delay in early 2025 is expected. FGA recognizes that this transition phase is critical for ensuring the long-term success of AHM but stresses the need for improved processes in subsequent years.

FGA’s Commitment to Members

FGA is focused on:

• Advocating for science-based, fair, and sustainable seasons that align with the needs of hunters and the environment.
• Promoting timely and transparent announcements to reduce the uncertainty and disruption caused by delays.
• Ensuring the voices of hunters are heard in the development of policies that shape the future of game management in Victoria.

We Hear Your Frustrations

FGA shares the frustration of members regarding the ongoing delays and the impact they have on planning for the season. We remain committed to working closely with the GMA and other stakeholders to improve timelines and provide greater certainty for hunters.

Looking Ahead

As AHM is implemented, FGA will continue to advocate for:

• Fair and evidence-based hunting seasons that prioritize sustainability and accountability.
• Realistic timelines that respect the needs of hunters and regional communities.
• Improved transparency to build trust in the decision-making process.

We thank our members for their patience and support during this period of transition. FGA remains steadfast in our mission to preserve hunting traditions, promote conservation, and ensure a sustainable future for game duck hunting in Victoria.
Stay tuned for updates as the strategy moves toward implementation.