More public land made available by the Tasmanian government for wild fallow deer hunting

More public land has been opened to recreational hunters as the government aims to reduce the wild fallow deer population.

An additional 23,538ha has been made available for hunting, bringing the total land shooters can access to 61,608ha.

The new hunting areas are located at Black Jack Hill, Ben Lomond West, Swan River, Cygnet River, and Apslawn Regional Reserve, among others.

The government has also launched a new booking system for hunters wanting to access public land.

"The Australian Deer Association (ADA) welcomes the release of further public land for recreational deer hunting and the new booking system by the Rockliff government," ADA Tasmanian coordinator Scott Freeman said.

"Recreational deer hunting plays a pivotal role in managing Tasmania's wild deer herd, provides a major economic boost to rural communities, and provides a source of highly valued, nutritious free-range red meat."

Primary Industries Minister Gavin Pearce said the government was determined to reduce the number of wild fallow deer across the state.

“Despite the action already taken, deer numbers are going up,” Mr Pearce said.

“Recognising there’s no silver bullet, we’re pulling many of the levers in front of us to get this sorted – including giving our hunters the access they need.”

A recent wild fallow deer survey estimated that the population had increased from 53,660 in 2019 to 71,655 in 2024.

Mr Pearce said the new booking system would “significantly reduce the hurdles our hunters need to jump to get out and do what they love”.

“Hunters can create an account, book trips across existing and newly opened hunting areas, receive their Game Authorities via email, and receive automated reminders to submit take returns.”

Bookings can be made via the Department of Natural Resources and Environment Tasmania website.