Queensland residents draws to the attention of the House that Queensland has no provision for public land hunting despite experiencing ongoing environmental and economic harm due to invasive species such as feral pigs, deer, wild dogs, foxes, goats, and cats, which are damaging native wildlife, degrading ecosystems, and impacting agricultural productivity. Other Australian states, including New South Wales and Victoria, have successfully introduced regulated public land hunting programs. These programs enable licensed, trained hunters to assist in the management of pest species on designated public lands—benefiting biodiversity, public land health, and rural economies.

Queensland does not currently allow similar public land access for recreational hunters, despite strong community support and the proven benefits of these programs elsewhere. We believe a regulated framework can be developed to ensure public safety, conservation outcomes, and community benefit.

Your petitioners, therefore, request the House to:

• Legislate a system to allow regulated public land hunting in Queensland, starting with a pilot program on selected State Forests or Crown land;
• Introduce a Queensland Game Hunting Licence, requiring a valid firearms licence, completion of an accredited hunter education course, and compliance with land access rules;
• Develop a booking and permit system to facilitate hunting access, enforce safety zones, and collect data on pest control outcomes;
• Engage relevant stakeholders in designing and reviewing the program.

Your petitioners further request that the House give this matter due consideration in the interests of effective invasive species control, environmental protection, and fair recreational hunting access.