Benefits

The effect of introduced animals on the natural environment can be devastating. Hunting is recognised as one of a number of tools used in the management of both introduced and wildlife species and also as a legitimate recreational pursuit⁵⁶. Hunting in NSW is currently well regulated by the DPI and NSW Police in conjunction with other Government agencies through strong strategic partnerships and community engagement. Hunting has the potential to contribute to pest control objectives through the increased harvest of problem wildlife species and the involvement of hunters in integrated pest control operations. Hunting also provides extensive social benefits to participants who engage in active outdoor recreation with family and friends, harvest clean organic meat and reconnect with the land and the natural world.

Regulated hunting is permitted on public lands for hunters with a valid and appropriate hunting licence. NSW state forests are working forests and must accommodate a range of recreational activities and primary production such as grazing, apiary and timber harvesting. Community access and environmental obligations must be carefully managed and hunting is a mutually beneficial part of this balance⁵⁶.

Licensed hunters harvested 29,485 deer in NSW across all land tenures⁵⁷. Hunters’ activity in state forests increased 39% during 2018–19. Increased animal harvest by hunters coupled with an increased focus on illegal hunting by the DPI Game Licensing Unit and NSW Police will continue to support farmers by reducing grazing competition and reducing direct costs borne by farmers having to respond to illegal hunting incursions on their lands.