The Tasmanian Government has opened an additional 23,538 hectares of public land to recreational deer hunting, bringing the total area available to hunters to 61,608 hectares across 19 regions.
The expansion includes 10 new hunting areas and is accompanied by a new online booking system designed to make accessing public land simpler and more efficient. Hunters can now create an account, book trips, receive Game Authorities by email and receive automated reminders to submit their take returns.
The changes follow consultation undertaken through the 2025 Tasmanian Deer Management Review, which attracted 836 submissions and demonstrated broad support for simpler rules and expanded hunting access to assist with deer management.
Minister for Primary Industries and Water Gavin Pearce said deer numbers continued to rise despite the measures already introduced and acknowledged that improved access for recreational hunters would form an important part of the Government’s broader response.
Australian Deer Association Tasmanian Coordinator Scott Freeman welcomed the announcement and the Government’s recognition of recreational hunters as a valuable deer management resource.
“Recreational deer hunting plays a pivotal role in managing Tasmania’s wild deer herd,” Mr Freeman said.
In addition to assisting with sustainable deer management, recreational hunting contributes to rural and regional economies and provides hunters and their families with highly valued, nutritious free-range venison.
The additional access and streamlined booking process are positive steps that will help more hunters participate in practical, responsible and effective wild deer management.
Hunters can view available areas and make bookings through the Tasmanian Public Land Deer Hunting Booking System. Area-specific conditions and temporary closures should be checked before making a booking.
