UPDATE: New reports confirm that hunting will be permitted on over 50,000 hectares across New South Wales, including key areas like Bathurst and Eurobodalla. This controversial decision comes under the Game and Feral Animal Legislation Amendment (Conservation Hunting) Bill 2025, as Premier Chris Minns has ruled out enshrining a “right to hunt” in law.
The announcement aims to address the state’s escalating feral animal problem but has sparked intense backlash from gun control advocates and environmental groups. The bill, introduced by Robert Borsak of the Shooters, Fishers and Farmers Party, is seen as a potential gateway for increased gun access and hunting rights.
The proposed hunting zones will cover 23 parcels of land, including five lots in Muswellbrook Shire Council, four in Mid-Western Regional Council, and additional areas near national parks. Currently, 1 million hectares of state forests are already open for licensed hunting, raising concerns among community members regarding safety and wildlife conservation.
Political sentiment has shifted dramatically against the legislation, with Liberal MPs accusing the government of engaging in “US-style political horse-trading” with the Shooters. This shift comes after the Coalition’s shadow cabinet reconsidered its initial support for the bill, following a parliamentary inquiry that raised numerous questions.
Borsak has rejected claims of a political deal, labeling opposition arguments as “anti-hunting lies and propaganda.” He emphasized that the legislation is designed to enhance hunting opportunities while addressing feral animal populations. However, critics argue that it could lead to increased gun proliferation, echoing fears of a broader push for gun rights similar to those seen in the United States.
The proposed hunting area around Lake Poonboon, near the Victorian border, has raised eyebrows among local landowners. One landowner, Dallas Pearce, expressed skepticism about the impact of the legislation on recreational activities. “When the lake’s full, what are they going to do? If they can’t shoot ducks, are they going to snorkel for kangaroos?” he questioned.
The government has yet to publicly release the full list of hunting sites, and the legislation, initially set for parliamentary debate this week, has been postponed until next week pending the inquiry’s report. In early discussions, Agriculture Minister Tara Moriarty indicated support for the bill, albeit with reservations regarding provisions for silencers and suppressors.
Premier Minns has now distanced himself from the notion of a legal “right to hunt,” stating, “I think they’re vastly different things,” and asserting, “There can’t be a right to bear arms in a country like Australia.” His stance reflects a broader concern about ensuring community safety while addressing the feral animal crisis.
As this story develops, all eyes will be on the upcoming parliamentary session, where further discussions and potential amendments to the bill are anticipated. The community remains divided, with many advocating for stricter controls on hunting and wildlife protection as the debate unfolds.
Stay tuned for immediate updates as this situation evolves.
