Croc hunting to remain illegal in NT

It's a decision bound to disappoint Crocodile Dundee wannabes but the federal government has upheld a ban on hunting the giant reptiles in the Top End.

Environment Minister Greg Hunt had been considering an application to legalise crocodile hunting in the Northern Territory but has decided against giving safaris the go-ahead.

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"My view is that there was a risk of cruel and inhumane treatment," he told reporters in Canberra on Thursday.

Supporters of croc hunting, including the NT government itself, have been pushing the federal government for years to rethink the ban, arguing the safaris could be a boon for tourism.

Mr Hunt said he was aware the issue was contentious but stood by his decision.