Public Apology to:
Tara Black,
Deputy Secretary Fisheries & Forestry,
NSW DPI
In my September 2026 Chair report, I stated:
“AFTA supports rebuilding depleted stocks, but consultation must be meaningful and occur before decisions are settled. In this case, there was no consultation, just an announcement which is disappointing. We will continue seeking clear information on allocation, monitoring, review and the consequences for businesses and fishing participation.”
I apologise for a personal oversight on my part, which I have now corrected in my September Chair Report and published on our AFTA website.
In fact, AFTA did receive notice on 28th November 2025 and AFTA did lodge a response to the Redfish Rebuilding Program consultation at that time as below:
AFTA Submission: Redfish Rebuilding Program
Disproportionate Recreational Impact
DPI proposed reducing the recreational bag limit from 20 fish to 1 fish, representing a 95% reduction, compared with the stated 14% reduction target.
AFTA argued that this was an extreme and inequitable restriction that would effectively remove meaningful recreational access to the fishery
AFTA’s Preferred Option:
- Bag limit: 10 fish
- Minimum size: retain 25 cm
AFTA’s position was that this approach would:
- Deliver a 50% reduction in recreational catch
- Far exceed the stated 14% requirement
- Maintain reasonable recreational access
- Support compliance and responsible stewardship
Again my sincere apologies to Tara Black, Deputy Secretary Fisheries & Forestry, NSW DPI for the oversight and for any confusion it may have caused.
Sincerely
Bob