RSPCA Victoria is very disappointed at the lack of welfare improvements made for game species following the release of the Government's statement of reasons for the proposed Wildlife (Game) Regulations 2024.
As part of the consultation for the proposed regulations, RSPCA Victoria advocated for changes to reduce wounding including banning bow hunting, regulating a maximum shooting distance and requiring proficiency testing for all hunters.
Additionally, due to their threatened status, RSPCA Victoria strongly advocated for Australasian (Blue-winged) Shovelers to be removed from the game list.
Speaking about the Government's statement, RSPCA Victoria Policy and Advocacy Manager, Mhairi Roberts, said it was extremely disappointing none of RSPCA Victoria recommendations were included in the remade regulations.
"We're saddened to see the Australasian Shoveler has been retained on the game list, irrespective of their listing as a threatened species under the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988," Ms Roberts said.
"The Government has also recommended not proceeding with the proposal to ban bowhunting despite inherent and unavoidable animal welfare issues.
"Whilst they have conceded they may consider issues related to the use of bows for hunting at a later date, we are both surprised and disappointed the Government has chosen not to ban this practice which causes significant pain and suffering that cannot be mitigated.
"Despite mandating a maximum shooting distance being raised in several submissions, the Government has chosen not to proceed with this proposal, nor will they undertake additional consultation to investigate whether this policy could be developed.
"It's also concerning that, despite the Victorian Government itself committing to improving hunters' knowledge and skills by making education and training for hunters' mandatory from 2025 following the Inquiry into Victoria's recreational native bird hunting arrangements, mandatory education and training have not been included in the proposed regulations.
"Not including regulations for proficiency testing is of great concern as proficiency testing has the potential to significantly mitigate some of the welfare issues in hunting and this review is the most fitting time and place to have this mandated.
"As the Wildlife Game Regulations will not be revised for another decade this is a significant missed opportunity."
Whilst very disappointed, RSPCA Victoria will continue to advocate for these key changes including highlighting the ongoing need to resume the stalled review of the Wildlife Act 1975. The Act is now nearly 50 years old and no longer adequately protects Victoria's wild animals.
RSPCA Victoria's submission made 16 recommendations to improve game regulations in Victoria and the submission can be viewed here.
The RSPCA is strongly opposed to the hunting of animals for sport.
The impact of hunting on animal welfare can be reduced.
Hunters must meet all relevant animal welfare standards and guidelines in order to ensure this.
