.In 2020, the Victorian Government stated that estimates of feral deer in Victoria reached up to, and potentially exceeding, 1 million. In 2023, it revised that figure to about 190,000 on public land only. The Game Management Authority (GMA) reports that deer hunting occurs roughly equally on public and private land, meaning the statewide population in 2023 may have been about 380,000. Yet the GMA also reports that hunters alone have removed around 464,000 feral deer since 2022, with many still remaining. How can that be? The VDCCN has prepared an examination of the alignment of the Victorian Governments population estimates and hunter harvest reports.
The Victorian Deer Control Community Network (VDCCN) was established in 2021 by people concerned that there was little co-ordination or sharing information on feral deer control activity. The VDCCN now provides a platform for state-wide collaboration of all groups and individuals over matters related to reducing the impact of feral deer.
Download the Victorian Deer Control Community Network Terms of Reference
For enquiries regarding VDCCN membership or for further information contact us.
The info and resources section includes links and downloads of reports, resources and research papers related to feral deer.
Other resources
There are four species of introduced deer that are running wild across much of the Victorian Landscape. The Victorian population is not accurately known; however, it is thought to be up to 1 million.
Feral deer are a high and increasing risk to motorists and have invaded peri-urban areas.
Information on ground and aerial shooting and lists organisations and providers to contact for further information.
Information on a number of non-lethal control methods including deterrents, fencing, removing water sources and harbour, and tree guards.
Information on establishing deer control community networks and collaborating community knowledge.
To assist landowners to manage deer on their land, the Victorian Deer Control Community Network (VDCCN) has developed this kit as a guide to provide the community with more information about feral deer and control options for a range of property types.
The Victorian Deer Control Community Network (VDCCN) provides a state-wide forum to share information, experiences and collectively seek solutions to substantially reduce the impact and distribution of feral deer in Victoria.
The strength and influence of the VDCCN is only as strong as its membership so we encourage anyone interested in the control of feral deer impacts to join and contribute.
To develop effective programs to reduce the impact of feral deer in Victoria it is vital to know more about where deer are present, which species and their impact.
If you are managing a project or activity around feral deer control or have something interesting you can share it with the VDCCN.