1 August 2025
The Finocchiaro CLP Government continues delivering on its election commitment to back Northern Territory hunters, locking in the dates and conditions for the 2025-26 recreational waterfowl hunting season to deliver certainty and security for hunters in the NT.
Running for around 17 weeks, the upcoming season will commence Saturday 6 September 2025 and conclude at midnight on Sunday 4 January 2026.
The daily bag limit of seven magpie geese and 10 ducks, per person per day, will remain in place up to and including the 2029 season, ending 6 January 2030.
Permitted waterfowl hunting on private land, primarily for pest mitigation, will commence Friday 15 August 2025 and end on Sunday 4 January 2026.Minister for Tourism and Hospitality and Parks and Wildlife Marie-Clare Boothby said with bag limits and season dates locked in for the next five years, the government is providing hunters with confidence.
"Labor ignored Territory hunters, but our government is backing them. That's why, just months after coming into government, we expanded the size of the Harrison Dam hunting area, and our recently acquired 'Silkwood' property will include a new dedicated hunting reserve."
"We promised Territorians a year of action, certainty, and security, and we are delivering on that promise by locking in waterfowl hunting season dates and bag limits well into the future," said Ms Boothby.
Minister for Lands, Planning and Environment Joshua Burgoyne said hunting was a valued activity for many Territorians a part of the unique Territory lifestyle - but also comes with responsibility.
"We know Territorians are keen to get out there this season, but it's important that eager hunters are across the conditions to ensure a safe and responsible season for everyone," Mr Burgoyne said.
"This includes holding a valid permit, keeping to the bag and possession limits, and remembering that lead shot is prohibited".
With a permit, hunting is allowed in the following areas:
Parks and Wildlife hunting reserves: Lambells Lagoon Conservation Reserve, Howard Springs Hunting Reserve, Shoal Bay Coastal Reserve and Harrison Dam Conservation Reserve from 6 September until 4 January 2026;
Designated Crown Land: Hunting is permitted from 6 September until 4 January 2026, provided the individual holds a valid permit issued by the Department of Lands, Planning and Environment; and
Private property (which includes Aboriginal land): Hunting is permitted from 15 August 2025 to 4 January 2026, provided the individual has prior written permission from the landholder and complies with setback conditions under the Firearms Act.
Deputy Chief Minister and Member for Nelson Gerard Maley said the CLP Government is proud to back recreational hunters and safeguard the Territory lifestyle.
"Recreational hunting is an important part of the Territory way of life, and our government is delivering the certainty and access hunters need to enjoy it responsibly," said Mr Maley.
"The CLP is restoring the unique Territory lifestyle by listening to locals, expanding access to hunting areas, and locking in season dates well into the future so Territorians can plan with confidence."
Permits can be obtained online here or from the Parks and Wildlife Permits Office.
