Codes of practice for the humane destruction of wildlife
The department administers several codes of practice which lay out minimum standards of ethical and humane behaviour when dealing with fauna. Compliance with these codes is mandated through the provisions of the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1972.
The documents specify the most appropriate, humane method of destroying native animals to minimise pain and suffering. Destruction should only be considered when the conflict between the animals and humans cannot be managed by non-lethal means. Codes of practice provide a plain English version of how to meet animal welfare and legal obligations when destroying an animal.
The following Codes of practice for the humane destruction of native wildlife apply in South Australia:
- Code of practice for the humane destruction of birds by shooting in South Australia (updated)
- Code of practice for the humane destruction of wombats by shooting in South Australia (updated 2018)
- Code of practice for the humane destruction of common brushtail possums by shooting in South Australia
- Code of practice for the humane destruction of flocking birds by trapping and carbon dioxide narcosis in South Australia
- National Code of Practice for the Humane Shooting of Kangaroos and Wallabies for Non-commercial Purposes
- National Code of Practice for the Humane Shooting of Kangaroos and Wallabies for Commercial Purposes (kangaroo industry).
The new National Code of Practice for the Humane Shooting of Kangaroos and Wallabies for Commercial Purposes was released on 18 November 2020. Compliance with this code will become a condition of commercial kangaroo harvesting permits in South Australia on 1 July 2021.
Where a Code of practice doesn't exist, you must comply with animal welfare requirements specified in the Animal Welfare Act 1985 and the regulations under that Act.
