The Department of Health released a document outlining the economic and social impacts of recreational hunting and shooting to Australia.
I only have to look at my hunting expenditure to know that hunters, shooters and outdoorsman inject huge chunks of money into the Australian economy. Pursing our way of life does not come cheap, however, we make it happen to the best of our abilities. Every hunt or shoot, the Australian economy receives a huge benefit from our past time.
The benefits are not only economic. Our way of life is active, healthy and jam-packed with mental and physical health benefits.
Deer hunting continues to grow; however, the agenda does still not look at deer as an economic resource. “Well regulated recreational deer hunting on public land provides economic, environmental and social benefits to participants and local communities”(ADA).
There are 640,000 recreational hunters and shooters in Australia. This includes those who hunt game and pest animals with firearms, bows or knives, and those who participate in target or sports shooting with firearms. It does not include farmers who shoot pest animals on their properties.
Hunters and shooters generate economic activity through the purchase of goods and services while they are on a hunting trip, such as fuel, groceries, ammunition, meals, and accommodation, as well the purchase of equipment such as firearms, bows and ammunition.The gross contribution to GDP, or the economic footprint, from recreational hunting and sport shooting activity in Australia in 2018 was estimated to be $2.4 billion, comprising $0.8 billion directly and $1.6 billion as a result of flow-on economic activity.
Hunting and shooting provides an opportunity for participants to engage in physical activity and hunters and shooters are more likely to be active than the general population. It also provides pathways to higher well-being for participants through nature connection, self-efficacy, social networks, physical activity and nutrition; again hunters and shooters have higher levels of well-being than the general population.
The data for this study was collected through an online survey, completed by 16,576 hunters and shooters.
The Australian Deer Association says it is not surprised by the results.
“We know that hunters and shooters spend significant amounts of money on their recreation” Mr Howlett noted.
“This report builds on previous studies in Victoria and New South Wales and, once again, highlights how important good regulation and access for hunting and shooting is, particularly for regional Australia.”
Mr Howlett also commented on the opportunities missed in some states.
“It’s no real surprise that New South Wales and Victoria disproportionately benefit from the expenditure. When you provide opportunities for hunters and enable them, they will come and they will spend money”.
To read he entire report click here.
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