Hunters to be allowed to stay overnight under gradual easing of restrictions

Hunters will soon be able to stay overnight in private accommodation and at campsites, so long as communal areas like shared bathrooms and kitchens are not used.

Hunters will soon be able to stay overnight in private accommodation and at campsites, so long as communal areas like shared bathrooms and kitchens are not used.

Hunters will also be able to gather in groups of up to 20 people outside, while maintaining physical distancing of 1.5 metres between all participants.

These changes will apply from 11.59pm on 31 May 2020.

With the easing of these restrictions, Victorians are still being asked to be considered and use common sense when it comes their activities. Stay safe by practising good hygiene, keeping your distance from others and, if you feel unwell, stay home.

If you have symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19), you should get tested.

Camping where there are no facilities to share, e.g. back country camping, is allowed. Staying at caravan parks and campgrounds that require use of communal areas, like shared bathrooms and kitchens, remains subject to current restrictions and will continue to be prohibited.

For more information, please check the Department of Health and Human Services’ Victoria’s restriction levels page.

The easing of restrictions complements the recent directions issued by the Chief Health Officer to allow people to leave their home to undertake outdoor recreational activities, including hunting.

Up until 1 June, these activities can occur in groups of up to 10 people outside, while maintaining physical distancing of 1.5 metres between all participants. Camping and overnight stays are not permitted until 1 June 2020.

Hunting is permitted within the open season for Stubble Quail, deer (except Hog Deer), hunting Sambar Deer with hounds, and ducks. The Hog Deer season is now closed.

Hunters participating in the 2020 duck hunting season are reminded that the daily bag limit is three game ducks per person, per day. Make sure you have all the details regarding the restrictions for the 2020 Duck Hunting Season and the latest of closed wetlands.

Authorised Officers are patrolling private properties and public land, including game reserves, wetlands and state forests, to ensure compliance with game hunting laws.

Illegal hunting and irresponsible behaviour will not be tolerated. Anyone caught doing the wrong thing risks significant fines, jail terms, loss of Game and Firearms licenses, and their firearms.

People are urged to report illegal hunting, such as poaching and breaches of public safety laws, to the Game Management Authority through its website at gma.vic.gov.au, on 136 186 or by contacting Victoria Police.

Hunting can only take place on public land where hunting is permitted. For more information on hunting on public land visit www.gma.vic.gov.au/hunting/hunting-maps