Out of the "too hard basket" - traditional hunting and animal welfare

Abstract

Although traditional hunting has been considered thoroughly in the context of ecological sustainability and native title rights, the animal welfare dimension of traditional hunting practices has been largely ignored. This article examines the current legislative framework which regulates the welfare of wild animals subject to traditional hunting in Australia. It considers the animal protection context in which such hunting takes place and reviews Indigenous and non-Indigenous attitudes towards wild animals. The author argues that inconsistent legislation, inadequate enforcement and a lack of debate on the issue contribute to perpetuating unnecessary cruelty. The protection of animals targeted in traditional hunting in overseas jurisdictions is also considered.