Government announces changes to Victoria Roo Harvest Program
The Australian Deer Association welcomed the Victorian Government’s changes to the Kangaroo Harvesting Program, including the decision to make the meat available for human consumption which was previously only available for pet food.
ADA executive officer Barry Howlett said the announcement was a sign of the times.
"This reinforces the value of sustainable hunting and sustainable use of wildlife as a preference over shoot to waste culling," he said.
“More and more people are looking for locally sourced, high protein, low fat meat. This program will deliver that and help continue the conversation about why ethical hunters do what we do.”
The 2021 quota was also increased by 37,780 to now allow a harvest of 95,680 kangaroos, a decision made after a notable rise in the state-wide kangaroo population.
Based on population surveys and modelling from the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP), the quotas protect the sustainability of the roo populations.
To participate, hunters have to be authorised, hold a firearms license and be accredited in firearms proficiency and game harvesting.
Harvesters must abide by the National Code of Practice for the Human Shooting of Kangaroos and Wallabies for Commercial Purposes and their vehicles and cool rooms must be up to standard, accredited through PrimeSafe.
Agriculture Minister Mary-Anne Thomas said by boosting the supply of locally-sourced roo meat, it will reduce the environmental impacts of importing it from other states, waste and create more jobs in country towns.
“It’s important kangaroo numbers are sustainably managed in Victoria to reduce impacts on landholders and the community,” she said.
“This program provides a service to farmers and an income to trained professional shooters.”