New research from public policy think tank The Australia Institute shows that a permanent ban on native bird hunting in South Australia is supported by a strong majority of the public and would have minimal impact on the state’s economy.

The findings are the result of a survey of 604 South Australians, undertaken between 15 May and 22 May 2023, and are contained in The Australia Institute’s submission to the ongoing Parliamentary Inquiry into the Hunting of Native Birds.

Key Findings:

• Three in four South Australians (76%) support a ban on native bird hunting, including one in two (48%) who strongly support the idea.
  • Just one in eight (13%) oppose a ban, including just 4% who are strongly opposed.
• Only 2% of South Australians have ever shot ducks or quail and intend to do so again.
• The economic impact of ending native bird hunting would be minimal, as 91% of hunters say they would redirect spending to fishing, hunting other species and similar outdoor activities.
• 71% of South Australians say that the presence of native bird hunting would deter them from visiting an area.

“Native bird hunting is deeply unpopular, benefits very few people in South Australia and imposes costs on the community,” said Noah Schultz-Byard, SA Director at The Australia Institute.

“Other states have banned native bird hunting with no apparent economic impact and hunters say that, in the event of a ban, they would simply pursue other activities.

“Ending native bird hunting would have a minimal impact on the economy and would provide substantial benefits to residents and businesses near hunting areas.

“Claims that hunting is economically significant rely on biased survey results and economic modelling techniques that make no consideration of environmental costs.

“It is time to do what a majority of South Australian people, and presumably birds, want and end this cruel and economically damaging practice.”