New state-of-the-art recreational fishing licence

The one million recreational fishers in NSW are one step closer to saying goodbye to the paper fishing licence with the NSW Government calling for tenders for a new state-of-the-art electronic sales system that will provide waterproof licences.

There are 1,100 agents across NSW selling the paper licences.

Agents and fishers have asked for a more efficient system to speed up licence purchases, particularly during peak times like school holidays and long weekends.  

The new state-of-the-art electronic system will provide quick and efficient licence sales, with data and funds able to be automatically transferred. 

The new licence system is the initiative of the Recreational Fishing Trusts.

Funds raised from the sale of recreational fishing licences are placed into two trusts, one for salt water and the other for fresh water. Expenditure from both of these trusts is overseen by angler expenditure committees on behalf of the recreational fishing community.

Trust money can only be spent on projects to improve recreational fishing.  DPI has been working closely with the Advisory Council on Recreational Fishing in developing the new licence arrangements and tender process.

We expect to have the new system piloted in selected agents by the end of the year.

DPI would like to thank the more than one-thousand agents across NSW who have worked with us over the years. This new system will make life a lot easier for all involved.

The tender will be open for 6 weeks commencing in early July. Tender details can be obtained at www.commerce.nsw.gov.au

For more information on the Recreational Fishing Trusts visit www.fisheries.nsw.gov.au