Queensland Wildlife Trade Management Plan for Export– Commercially Harvested Macropods 2023–2027.

The Queensland Wildlife Trade Management Plan for Export – Commercially Harvested Macropods 2023–2027 outlines how the state manages the commercial harvesting of red kangaroos, eastern grey kangaroos, and common wallaroos. The plan ensures that harvesting is ecologically sustainable, humane, and compliant with both state and federal laws. The plan is built on the principle of ecologically sustainable development, meaning that kangaroo populations must be maintained at healthy levels while allowing for commercial use. To achieve this, the government conducts annual aerial surveys to estimate populations and sets harvest quotas based on a fixed proportion of these estimates. These quotas are adjusted if populations fall below certain thresholds. Animal welfare is a key focus. All harvesters must pass a training course and shooting test to ensure they can kill kangaroos humanely, following the National Code of Practice for the Humane Shooting of Kangaroos and Wallabies. The Department of Environment and Science monitors compliance and investigates any breaches. The plan also promotes the cultural significance of macropods to First Nations peoples and includes actions to raise awareness among stakeholders. Licensing is tightly controlled, with specific conditions for harvesters and dealers, including tagging requirements and monthly reporting. Compliance is monitored through inspections of harvesters, dealers, and vehicles. A minimum of of harvested animals are inspected annually. Any breaches can result in penalties or prosecution. The plan supports adaptive management and research, allowing for changes based on new information or environmental conditions. It also encourages community engagement through public reporting and stakeholder forums. Finally, the plan includes safeguards to protect genetic diversity and prevent overharvesting. It excludes protected areas and ensures that harvesting does not negatively impact other species or ecosystems.