Continued fishing threatens various demersal species in WA waters. Photo: Western Australian Government.
Recent scientific assessments of Western Australia’s demersal fish species have revealed a depleted stock in much of the state’s waters, with the government set to act urgently to aid recovery.
Stock assessments were independently reviewed by an international expert and CSIRO scientist Professor André E. Punt.
Western Australia’s Cook Labor Government has called on representatives and stakeholders, such as recreational and commercial fishers, scientists, small businesses and the wider community, to formulate a solution that takes into account the needs of as many people as possible.
“We know that several demersal species statewide are under serious threat from continued fishing pressure, including pink snapper, red emperor, and dhufish — which is only found in WA,” Fisheries Minister Jackie Jarvis said.
“Our fisheries make a significant contribution to the WA economy and lifestyle, and we want to ensure our kids and grandkids can enjoy the same fishing opportunities as we can today.”
A Fishing Futures Forum on the issue will involve bodies such as the Western Australian Fishing Industry Council, Recfishwest and Marine Tourism WA, in addition to fishing and boating clubs, seafood businesses, the Aboriginal Fishing Advisory Committee, universities and marine conservation societies.
The forum intends to develop guiding principles to inform government decisions and present practical ideas that support sustainability in the long term.
Independent facilitator Susanna Durston will lead the event, supported by Fisheries Research and Development Corporation managing director Sean Sloan, South Australian Research and Development Institute research scientist Dr Troy Rogers and Australian Fisheries Management Authority senior manager Dan Corrie.
“Today is an important step in protecting the long-term sustainability of our demersal fish,” Ms Jarvis said.
“I want to thank everyone for coming together to be part of the solution and understanding the need to work together to protect this shared resource.”
Stakeholders will have their say to reach a consensus on how to manage Western Australia’s demersal population.
Management decisions regarding this issue must be made by the end of the year, the government says.
To review the state’s data or have your say on the issue, visit the WA Government’s website.
