DUCK shooting has received bipartisan support despite push polling by the Animal Justice Party to sway voter sentiment.

More than half of Victorian voters surveyed in a recent UComms/ReachTel poll, which was commissioned by the anti-hunting micro party, want the government to ban recreational duck hunting.

The survey comes as upper house crossbenchers led by Animal Justice MP Andy Meddick call for the practice to be banned.

media_camera

However, the State Agriculture Minister and opposition agriculture spokesman reiterated their support for maintaining the hunt.

“We respect the fact that many people have deeply held and divergent views about duck hunting,” Agriculture Minister Jaclyn Symes said.

“However, the Government recognises that hunting is a legitimate recreational activity, provided the rules are followed.”

National Party leader Peter Walsh said the Andrews Government claimed to support recreational hunting in Victoria, but their actions do not match their words.

“Our hunters and Field & Game Australia feel disappointed and completely let down by the Andrews Government’s decision to announce a limited season this year, going against advice that supported a full season,” he said.

“It’s yet another underhanded Labor move that bends to the Fitzroy turmeric latte set, while strangling jobs, tourism and spending in our regional communities.”

The poll of 1035 Victorians found only a third of respondents wanted to keep the hunting status quo.

This year’s shooting season, which starts on March 16, was shortened by the Game Management Authority from 12 to nine weeks and the bag limit cut.

The GMA cited reduced duck numbers and wetland habitat.