The Victorian Government has announced wetland closures effective for the start of this year’s Victorian game bird season. For full details, view the announcement here: Victorian Duck Season 2025 - Wetland Closures as of 14th March 2025

FGA  welcomes the Government’s commitment to the duck season under the Adaptive Harvest Model (AHM) and its recognition of sustainable hunting as responsible resource management. The sustained move towards a science based season setting process must continue.

Yet, we are deeply angered by what we can only see as the influence of non-elected government bureaucrats who have undermined science-based the process and the decisions with ideological interference, imposing unnecessary and unjust wetland closures. In the case of Lake Connewarre—a thriving ecosystem preserved through hunters’ relentless dedication, not despite it. These closures are a direct assault on sustainable hunting, with evidence-driven outcomes cast aside by anti-hunting ideologues within certain government departments. These individuals are exploiting their roles to push personal agendas, and we will continue to push the government to call them out.

Several other wetlands are also closed for questionable reasons, FGA have already pushed the view that lakes like Tutchewop (closed due to migratory birds) MUST be reopened as soon as those birds leave (usually late March to early April) and within days, not weeks!

Field & Game Australia stands resolute in supporting our members, GMA field staff, and authorized officers throughout the season. Together, we will ensure Victoria’s wetlands thrive and the rights of hunters who steward them are upheld. We call on all stakeholders to prioritize science over ideology and work with us for a sustainable future.

Beyond this, the season outlook is good, there are birds, and huntable water. FGA members and the broader hunting community must continue to do the right things and remain engaged and compliant. We are all in this together, for a strong future for waterfowl hunting across Australia!

FGA will be providing updated information to members about wetland closures throughout the season via this page Latest Information - Victorian Wetland Closures 2025 Duck Season

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