Following extensive engagement with government and key stakeholders, the Victorian Government has committed funding to progress the policy and regulatory framework needed to enable the processing of recreationally harvested wild venison.
This outcome reflects years of consistent, evidence-based advocacy led by the ADA to address a long-standing gap in Victoria’s deer management framework.
At the centre of this effort was the ADA’s formal budget submission, which outlined a clear, practical pathway to unlock the value of recreationally harvested deer. The proposal highlighted the opportunity to reduce waste, improve utilisation of harvested animals, and create new regional economic activity — while maintaining the highest standards of food safety and compliance.
The State Budget confirms that work will now begin on developing the necessary policy and regulatory settings, including exploration of a dual-licensed butcher model to safely process wild venison for broader use.
This is a critical step forward.
Each year, more than 100,000 deer are harvested by recreational hunters in Victoria, contributing significantly to population control and environmental management. However, regulatory barriers have meant that much of this high-quality, sustainable protein cannot currently enter formal processing channels.
The inclusion of this initiative in the budget signals a shift toward more practical, outcomes-focused deer management — one that recognises the role of hunters not just in control, but in contributing to food systems, regional economies, and environmental outcomes.
Importantly, this work builds on the Victorian Government’s Sustainable Hunting Action Plan and aligns with broader priorities around waste reduction, circular economy principles, and regional development.
For the ADA, this result underscores the importance of credible, solutions-focused advocacy.
By working constructively with government, presenting clear policy options, and drawing on proven international models such as New Zealand’s wild venison system, the Association has helped move this issue from concept to committed government action.
While this funding represents a major milestone, it is only the beginning.
The next phase will involve detailed policy development, stakeholder engagement, and the design of an implementation framework that ensures safety, practicality, and strong outcomes for all involved.
The Australian Deer Association will continue to play an active role in this process, ensuring that the voice of hunters remains central as this reform takes shape
