Waterfowl Identification Test (WIT)
The Waterfowl Identification Test assesses your ability to identify game and non-game bird species. Individuals must pass the WIT before they qualify for the NSW Native Game Bird Management Program.
Some NSW DPI staff are accredited as WIT Supervisors by the Victorian Game Management Authority (GMA), enabling them to deliver the WIT in NSW.
What are the benefits of completing the WIT?
- Learn to distinguish between game and non-game native waterfowl species so you can positively identify your target every time.
- Qualify for duck hunting programs in NSW, Victoria, Tasmania and South Australia, depending on your pass mark.
- Assist private landholders to sustainably manage the impact of duck damage by taking part in the NSW Native Game Bird Management Program (if you also hold a NSW Game Hunting Licence).
- Teach others about the importance of waterfowl identification and being a responsible game bird hunter.
Also, if you hold a NSW Game Hunting Licence, you are covered with $20-million third-party public liability insurance.
Expressions of interest
If you live in NSW, Queensland or the Australian Capital Territory and would like to attempt the WIT, you can register your interest to DPI Hunting using Form GB-W: Expression of Interest - Waterfowl Identification Test (PDF, 152.89 KB).
WIT assessments are usually scheduled when the minimum number of expressions of interest are met for different locations.
Victorian residents should contact the Victorian GMA on 136 186 or Field & Game Australia on 03 5799 0960 to undertake the WIT.
When a WIT is scheduled
When a WIT is scheduled in a region you expressed interest for, the Wildlife Management Support Team will contact you with more information. You will be invited to register for the event and send you a free copy of Duck WISE (Waterfowl Identification, Safety, Effective and Efficient Hunting), the education video that the test is based on.
Fee
An upfront $40 administration fee is payable to confirm your place at the scheduled WIT. You will be asked to submit a registration form with payment details before your place is confirmed.
The administration fee is payable each time you register for a WIT and is not refundable if you fail to complete or do not pass the test.
Landholders, including members of their household and employees, who hold a current Native Game Bird Management (Owner/Occupier) Licence are not required to pay the administration fee.
Landholders are encouraged to contact DPI Hunting on gamebirds@dpi.nsw.gov.au for more information about completing the online WIT.
Preparing for the test
The WIT assesses your ability to identify game and non-game native duck species. The test is based on the first section of the Duck WISE education DVD.
- Study Duck WISE - You must be familiar with the first section covering waterfowl identification before attempting the test.
- Try the practice test - The Victorian Game Management Authority has a practice WIT available on their website.
- Take note of the diversity of waterbirds in your local area as these species may appear in the WIT.
Candidates with language or learning difficulties should identify themselves to the WIT supervisor before attempting the assessment.
Completing the test
- The WIT consists of 22 multiple choice questions.
- Before each question, you will be shown a clip from Duck WISE showing waterfowl in flight.
- The questions you are asked will relate to the footage shown.
- There will be plenty of time to select an answer after each question.
- Pay special attention to any non-game species that may appear in the test.
Marking system
The WIT grade you receive determines the state/s or territory in which you're able to hunt game birds.
| Score | Grade | Allowed to hunt game birds in |
|---|---|---|
| 66 | AA | NSW, Vic, SA & Tas |
| 57 - 64 | P | NSW, Vic, SA & Tas |
| 50 plus | NSW-T | NSW & Tas |
| 47 plus | T | Tas only |
After the test
- Answer sheets are sent to the Victorian GMA for official marking.
- Please allow at least 10 working days for your marks to be processed by GMA.
How do I receive my results?
- GMA will provide your result via an online MyGL account.
- Visit the GMA website for sign-up details.
- Ensure you use the same email address provided on your NSW WIT registration form when you register for a MyGL account.
Adding your WIT number to a NSW Game Hunting Licence
If you already hold a NSW General or Restricted Game Hunting Licence and wish to take part in the Native Game Bird Management Program, you can 'update' your licence by emailing your WIT number to hunting@dpi.nsw.gov.au.
For faster processing, please provide evidence of your WIT accreditation (such as a Victorian Game Licence card or MyGL record) with your email.
New applicants can apply for either a NSW General or Restricted Game Hunting Licence and simply attach evidence of WIT accreditation.
If no supporting evidence is supplied, please allow 10 working days for verification to be sought through GMA.
Allow 20 working days for new game hunting licence applications to be processed. You will receive an interim licence with your licence number and security PIN so you can access the Native game bird portal, part of online licence holder services. Interim licences are sent by email if you have provided a valid email address.
More information
For all WIT related enquiries, contact the DPI Hunting Wildlife Management Support team at gamebirds@dpi.nsw.gov.au.
