Fishing for a better future in NSW
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A new era for NSW’s major commercial fisheries began today with an innovative new framework for managing commercial fisheries across NSW.
“This marks an historic milestone for commercial fishing in NSW,” Department of Primary Industries (DPI) Manager Fisheries Planning and Operations, Andrew Goulstone said.
“From today, the Estuary General, Estuary Prawn Trawl, Ocean Hauling, Ocean Trap & Line and Ocean Trawl commercial fisheries will operate under new share management and licensing arrangements.
“The new reforms have been developed in consultation with the commercial fishing industry over the last two years.
“Under previous schemes, which have been in place for more than 100 years, commercial fishers were issued with an annual renewable licence that could be cancelled without compensation” he added.
“Share management is a fair system that provides fishers with a secure access right in the form of shares, and greater flexibility to adjust their businesses through share trading.
"The changes will mean an improved setting for longer term investment, better fishing practices and a reduction in red tape,” Mr Goulstone said.
“Fishers have been issued a certain type and number of shares depending on their past participation in the industry. The formula for issuing shares was set in 2004 following an extensive consultation process involving the whole of industry.
Mr Goulstone said around 1,400 fishing business owners will benefit from the new share management scheme and streamlined licensing arrangements.
“The commercial fisheries for abalone and lobster are already share managed, while the Inland, Sea Urchin & Turban Shell and Southern Fish Trawl fisheries will remain as Restricted Fisheries for the immediate future.”
“DPI is committed to working with industry and other stakeholders to build a sustainable and viable future for our commercial fisheries.
“Share management lays the foundation for better resource planning and use,” Mr Goulstone said.
More details about the reforms are available from www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fisheries
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