Victorian recreational hunters and anglers must not suffer a reduction in services as the Allan Labor Government presses ahead with their proposed Victorian Fisheries Authority (VFA) and Game Management Authority (GMA) merger.
While some peak bodies have acknowledged the potential merits of the merger, there remains deep concern within both the hunting and fishing communities about whether the new model can deliver on its promises without compromising frontline compliance, enforcement and service delivery.
Ms Bath said the merger may have merit on paper, but the Allan Labor Government’s track record gives little confidence that it will be properly supported.
“There must be a strong focus on training and education so compliance can be managed efficiently and effectively to protect the long-term sustainability of our fisheries and game resources,” Ms Bath said.
“A single compliance authority has worked in other jurisdictions, including New Zealand, where Fish and Game operate together successfully. However, the key difference is that it has been properly supported and resourced by government.
“The proof is yet to be seen in Victoria. Only months ago, the Allan Labor Government slashed the Victorian Fisheries Authority’s budget by 44 per cent. That decision gutted frontline fisheries officers and significantly weakened enforcement capability. It is exactly this kind of under-investment that now casts serious doubt over this merger.”
Ms Bath also pointed to the ongoing politicisation of the duck hunting season as further evidence of the Allan Labor Government’s lack of credibility when it comes to supporting the GMA and the broader hunting community.
“For this merger to succeed, the Allan Labor Government must guarantee no loss of compliance capacity, no reduction in regional service delivery, and comprehensive cross-training for all officers,” Ms Bath said.
“The Liberal and Nationals strongly support Victorian hunters and anglers. Enjoying the outdoors is part of our culture, vital for mental health and a major driver of regional economies. Any reform must strengthen—not weaken—the systems that protect these traditions and the communities that rely on them.”
