Victoria is home to numerous invasive deer species, all harmful to the environment. Photo: Game Management Authority, Victorian Government.
The Victorian Government is expanding opportunities for deer hunting in the state in an effort to boost tourism, satisfy hunters and control the feral deer population.
The National Parks Act will be amended to allow seasonal deer hunting in the Errinundra and Snowy River national parks. The change was announced by the Minister for Outdoor Recreation Steve Dimopoulos.
Under the amendment, recreational hunting will be open for seasonal deer in 130,000 hectares of the two parks in addition to most public land in eastern Victoria.
The new policy adds existing opportunities for accredited hunters in the state, supporting outdoor recreation while controlling the wild deer population across the state.
Feral deer, like wild horses and pigs, have a devastating effect on the integrity of the topsoil due to their hard hooves.
“This is a win for regional communities – expanding deer hunting means more visitors, more jobs, and stronger local economies,” Mr Dimopoulos said.
“By providing access to deer hunting in Errinundra and Snowy River national parks, we will reduce the impact of deer on our national parks and on native ecosystems, preserving our environment for future generations to enjoy.”
Those wishing to recreationally hunt deer in Victoria are required by law to hold a current Victorian Game Licence issued by the Game Management Authority.
There are more than 45,000 licensed deer hunters in the state, and the sport supports local industry and generates economic activity in regional and rural areas.
Between 2013 and 2019, recreational hunting supported more than 3100 jobs and contributed $356 million to the state’s economy, $201 million of which was from recreational deer hunting.
In 2023, recreational hunters harvested 137,000 deer and hunted for a total of 332,000 days. More than half of hunting occurred exclusively on public land.
The change in law intends to boost tourism and recreation in the state, help a productive part of the economy and maintain the integrity of native bushland by eliminating invasive pests.
This announcement is paired with the Victorian Deer Control Strategy, a statewide plan for the government to manage deer populations across the state and coordinate control action in areas of particular concern to help the environment and aid biodiversity, as well as protect agricultural land from deer.
Australian Deer Association advocacy lead Sean Kilkenny said: “This is a fantastic decision by the Allan Labor Government and is welcomed by over 45,000 licensed recreational deer hunters.
“Public land access is cherished, and we thank the Premier and Minister for their ongoing efforts and engagement regarding public land access.”
