27/08/2024

On Monday, August 26th, Premier Allan addressed The Herald Sun Bush Summit in what could be a watershed moment regarding public land access and the ill-fated “Great Forest National Park” concept.

In finishing her speech, the Premier took a policy position: “I won't be putting a padlock on our public forest; it's not who I am, and it's not what I believe.”

This could well mean the end to the “Great Forest National Park” concept, which was built upon the foundation of ending native timber harvesting by creating a national park. But with the native timber harvesting industry now being shut down, the foundation for a new park has collapsed.

The Premier's position mirrors earlier commentary by Minister (for Environment) Dimopoulos on ABC 774 radio in June, in which he stated, “The government is not looking at creating new National Parks” and that the government has “no commitment to a National Park.”

The Premier also highlighted the value of using public lands: “The most important thing we can do for our bush is to make sure it is enjoyed.” This again was consistent with comments made earlier this year by Minister Dimopoulos, who stated, "Public lands in this state are for public use, and they (the public) should be able to benefit from them.”

It is pleasing to hear the government repeating a consistent set of messages. The Great Outdoors Taskforce is now underway, and one of its key focuses is maximising recreation opportunities. The Australian Deer Association has already met and engaged with the Taskforce, and more are planned.

Policy for public land access for recreational deer hunting is the bedrock of the ADA; from huge wins in creating public land access in New South Wales, Tasmania, and Victoria to the present-day challenges of maintaining it, the ADA continues to relentlessly pursue these policy objectives for the benefit of all recreational deer hunters in Australia.

On the back of these most recent comments, the Australian Deer Association will continue to engage and advocate to ensure that they are followed through and become reality.

To support the ongoing efforts of the ADA, please consider becoming a member today.