Wildlife (Game) Regulations 2024.

The Wildlife (Game) Regulations 2024 (Vic) establish a comprehensive framework for the regulation of game hunting in Victoria, pursuant to the Wildlife Act 1975. These regulations revoke the interim regulations from 2023. Their primary objectives include the management of game species, the administration of game licences, the regulation of hunting methods, and the control of possession and handling of game. The regulations are structured into eight principal parts, supported by detailed schedules. They govern the application process for game licences, including eligibility criteria, fees, testing requirements, and conditions attached to various licence types. Specific provisions address exemptions for non-residents and minors, and outline the responsibilities of licence holders, such as notification of address changes and participation in ballots for hunting access. Hunting methods are strictly regulated, with limitations on the types of firearms, ammunition, and hunting aids permitted. The use of toxic shot is prohibited, and only approved non-toxic alternatives are allowed. Restrictions also apply to the use of spotlights, motor vehicles, and aircraft in hunting activities. The regulations further delineate permissible and prohibited hunting times, including specific constraints during open seasons. The use of dogs and hounds in hunting is subject to detailed conditions. Only registered hounds may be used for hunting Sambar Deer, and their registration is contingent upon compliance with breed standards and identification requirements. The Game Management Authority retains powers to inspect, suspend, or cancel hound registrations under specified circumstances. Provisions concerning the possession and handling of game mandate humane treatment of animals, recovery of downed birds, and retention of identifiable parts for verification. Commercial handling of game is regulated to ensure traceability and lawful sourcing, with prohibitions on sale unless specific licensing or authorisation is held. Special provisions apply to Hog Deer, including mandatory tagging, reporting, and biological sampling at designated checking stations. The issuance and use of Hog Deer tags are tightly controlled, with penalties for non-compliance. The regulations also define specified hunting areas and prohibited zones, including detailed maps in the schedules. Traditional owner groups are afforded exemptions under certain conditions, recognising agreements under the Traditional Owner Settlement Act 2010. Schedules provide technical and geographic detail, including species classifications, seasonal limits, approved dog breeds, and chemical compositions of non-toxic shot. Penalties for contraventions are expressed in penalty units, with values set under the Monetary Units Act 2004.