About Us

The Australian Recreation Union (ARU) was founded by a dedicated group of former state members of the Shooters Union, unified by a shared love for outdoor recreation and a profound commitment to protecting these freedoms for future generations. We understand the joy, the peace, and the thrill that outdoor pursuits bring to our lives—and we’re here to make sure that continues, unchallenged, across our nation. 

As an organisation, we represent the collective voice of more than 8.2 million Australian adults who engage in outdoor recreations: four-wheel drive adventurers, fishers, hunters, archers, and rock climbers. Our board is made up of individuals from these diverse fields who all share a common goal: ensuring that our beloved activities are safeguarded from restrictive legislative changes that threaten to limit how we engage with nature. We believe in the importance of not just maintaining our recreations but in defending our right to enjoy them, as well as passing these experiences down to future generations. 

As an approved hunting club with the Department of Primary Industries in NSW, we also hold the status required to issue Restricted Game Licences, allowing us to support members in their hunting pursuits in compliance with regulations. But our mission goes beyond licences and permits. We stand as advocates and allies, engaging with parliamentary representatives and key stakeholders to ensure that our voices are heard, and our interests respected. 

By joining the ARU, you’re not just becoming a member—you’re joining a movement. A movement that is determined to protect the right to enjoy the outdoors, to create memories with family and friends, and to leave a legacy of freedom, respect, and access to our wild places for our children and theirs to come. We invite you to stand with us, for your rights, and for the future of outdoor recreation in Australia.