The DLP recognises the vital first-line of defence by primary producers against vermin, being of both plant and animal varieties, and in their role in the control and eradication of such. Primary producers require the relaxing of gun laws to again carry out this role, as the upswing in numbers of animal vermin is readily noticeable in all areas of our country since the current gun laws were introduced.
The DLP will protect the hunting of vermin and rogue animals by primary producers, as well as by licensed firearms carriers, providing such permission is granted by the land-holders. This is so that the legitimate activity of clearing vermin from our eco-systems to protect the product of the producers, as well as protecting our valuable and unique flora and fauna, is maintained.
The DLP will protect hunting as a legitimate activity that supports the clearing of vermin such as wild pigs, feral dogs, feral cats and other obnoxious vermin that is destroying our native wildlife, to ensure sustainability of our unique eco-environment.
The infestation of feral animals in this state is leading to the extinction of the bilby and many other small mammals and reptiles. The DLP would work with organisations like the sporting shooters, the crossbow and archery associations to encourage the participation in feral clearance of affected areas.
We would allow such ‘Licensed’ persons to clear vermin in National Parks, as these have become havens of sanctuary for introduced species and thus these are continuing to destroy the very flora and fauna that we are trying to protect. Naturally, this is only to be carried out in conjunction with the local Rangers of such parks and in controlled programs.
We would protect both competition shooting and firearms collection and usage in Australia as legitimate activities; we would continue to maintain the current tough home secure storage legislation in Australia, while removing the heavy licensing requirements on category A & B firearms and the current restrictions on crossbows.
All human life has the Right of Self-Protection from vermin and rogue animals, and the carrying of weapons in rural and remote areas is an every-day reality, and one which the DLP would endeavour to protect.