Ethical Hunting Practices

Hunters need to understand and follow the principles of ethical hunting and SSAA Queensland members are required to abide by our Hunting Code of Ethics. They should also always display an appreciation and adherence to sustainable wildlife management practices and obey all specific game and hunting laws.

Two of the most popular ways to get involved with hunting as an SSAA Queensland member are through the Conservation & Wildlife Management (CWM) program or the Farmer Assist program.

Only pest animals, including feral pigs, feral cats and dogs, hares, foxes, rabbits, feral goats, chital, fallow, and hog deer, and dingoes, may be hunted in Queensland.

Hunting is restricted to privately owned land, with the landholder’s express permission. Hunting on Crown Land (including in state forests and national parks) is NOT PERMITTED in Queensland.

SSAA Queensland Code of Ethics

Respect Landholder Permissions

Having first obtained a landholder’s permission to shoot on their property, members should consider themselves to be invited guests.

Adhere to Firearm Safety

Members must obey the rules of safe firearms handling and diplomatically, yet firmly, insist others do the same.

Follow Hunting Laws and Regulations

Members must obey relevant hunting laws and regulations and diplomatically yet firmly insist others do the same.

Support Wildlife Conservation

Members should support game conservation programs and the sustainable use of wildlife.

Promote Ethical Hunting and Safety to Future Generations

Most importantly, members must pass on to others, including youngsters, the proper attitudes towards game management and conservation and the skills of safe firearms ownership, which are the hallmarks of the sporting shooter.

Rules of Hunting Etiquette

  • Leave gates as you find them.
  • Ask permission before lighting fires.
  • Keep fires as small as possible.
  • Put your fires out properly before leaving.
  • Keep clear of stock routes.
  • Drive only on defined tracks.
  • Keep away from water troughs.
  • Never contaminate stock water with soaps.
  • Be especially careful with target identification and danger zones if spotlighting.
  • Never gather firewood or use a chainsaw without prior permission.
  • Ensure the property owner is aware of your movements.
  • If you are successful on your hunting trip, offer to share your game with the landowner.
  • Report any suspicious or unusual events to the landowner.
  • Don’t continue to return to the property with new people.
  • Respect and look after the property as if it were your own.
  • Take your rubbish away with you.

Hunters are encouraged to read the booklet:

Model Code of Practice for the Welfare of Animals: Feral Livestock Animals