Goals of hunter education — Hunter LEAP (Learning, Accreditation and Education Program)
The most important aspect of hunter education is to minimise or eliminate the risk of a firearm- or hunting-related incident. Before a hunter takes to the field, he or she should have competent hunting and firearms handling skills. Through hunter education, DPI aims to ensure that all hunters comply with laws and regulations and act in an ethical, safe and responsible manner.
Hunting laws are regularly reviewed and are subject to change, requiring hunters to keep up to date with new legislation. Attending supplementary education programs helps hunters maintain and even increase their knowledge and skillsets.
Hunter LEAP covers a broad range of topics:
- access to lands
- hunting laws
- animal welfare
- hunting ethics
- respect for nature and the environment
- hunter safety
- hunting and shooting skills.