Field & Game Australia recognises that the past 18 months and more have been challenging times for all of us. The uncertainty, constant adjustments, and the sense of not knowing what was coming next have been exhausting. While we are not happy with the way some of these restrictions have fallen in the rewrite of the Wildlife (Game) Regulations, we at least look forward to moving forward knowing where we stand. It’s important to note we’ve managed to secure some critical wins for the future of hunting in Victoria.

The Labor Government has stood by its commitment to enable sustainable, regulated game hunting to continue. The final regulations have mostly adhered to what was in the draft, but there were some important changes made, including:

• Lead ammunition: The proposed ban on the use and possession of toxic (lead) ammunition for hunting deer was removed, allowing continued use. However, the ban on lead shot for quail has been implemented, following the Select Committee’s recommendation. Despite our protests, this decision was not reversed, but common sense has prevailed in not extending the ban to deer hunting at this stage.
• Blue-winged shoveler: This species will remain on the game bird list but will have a full-year closed season "at this time". Initially, there was a push to remove the blue-winged shoveler from the game list altogether. The current wording leaves a pathway for its return in the future.
• Opening times: The government has implemented a Wednesday opening with an 8 am start time for the first five days of the duck season. This change was argued from a public safety standpoint, but we see it as a punitive measure intended to reduce hunter participation in the first week. There is no strong evidence supporting these changes, but it is difficult to get the government to override the recommendations of its own departments. We encourage all hunters to comply with these new times while we continue to advocate for more reasonable regulations.
• Electronic acoustic lures: The permanent ban on electronic acoustic lures for hunting quail will proceed, but with an exemption allowing their continued use for duck hunting.

While these changes present new challenges, they also represent a solid commitment to the future of responsible, regulated hunting in Victoria. Importantly, it is acknowledged that hunting is not only sustainable but also adds economic benefits to the state, especially in regional areas. The consumptive harvest of game animals contributes positively to Victoria’s environment and wildlife management. We are aware that the concessions hunters have made in this process will not appease those who are ideologically opposed to hunting. However, it is equally important to remember that these extreme views do not represent the majority of public opinion.

Public opinion supports sustainable and responsible hunting, recognising its critical role in wildlife management and conservation. The ability to access public lands and responsibly use public resources, including well-managed native game and invasive species, remains a cornerstone of our community. The science is clear: hunting is a sustainable practice that contributes positively to the health of our ecosystems.

As we move forward, Field & Game Australia remains resolute in its dedication to preserving the right to hunt and the important role it plays in maintaining our natural heritage. We will continue to advocate for our members and ensure that hunting is recognised as a vital and respected part of our environmental management efforts. We encourage our members to adapt to these new regulations and continue to demonstrate the highest standards of ethical behaviour. Our strength lies in our connection and commitment to the responsible stewardship of the land.

We will continue to work with the government and all stakeholders to ensure that the voice of the hunting community is heard and respected.

To read the government's "Notice of Decision", and its "Statement of Reasons" behind its decisions, click on the documents listed below.