Subsistence Hunting
Is it legal to hunt protected species such as marine turtles and dugongs?
Marine turtles and dugongs are protected under the Australian Government’s Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act), which lists them as marine and migratory species, and also by various state and Northern Territory legislation.
Can turtles and dugongs be killed humanely using traditional hunting methods?
The most humane methods for killing animals cause immediate unconsciousness without pain or suffering, followed by death without consciousness being regained.
Are Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander hunters exempt from animal cruelty laws?
No, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander hunters must comply with the laws relating to animal cruelty in all states and territories.