AFTA Chair’s Report – July 2025

South Australia

South Australia has recently experienced both positive and negative developments. The state government’s management of the east coast snapper fishery—through increased bag limits and temporary reductions on Southern Calamari—has proved workable for industry stakeholders.

However, the expansion of an algal bloom has suspended commercial and recreational fishing activities, with significant impacts on retail and charter operators. This issue is particularly acute around Port Lincoln and now affects much of the state, including the Lower Eyre Peninsula, home to the largest commercial fishing fleet in the Southern Hemisphere.

AFTA and RecFishSA are seeking State and Federal assistance, pushing for the crisis to be declared a natural disaster to unlock support. While the SA Government has allocated $500,000 in fee relief for commercial fishers, it has yet to recognise the severe impact on the recreational sector.

South Australia Implements New Fishing Limits for Snapper and Calamari

South Australia’s recreational fishers will see updated daily catch limits for both Snapper and Southern Calamari as new regulations take effect from July 1st, aimed at sustaining key marine populations.

Snapper Bag and Boat Limits Increased in Southeast Zone

Recreational anglers operating within the South East Fishing Zone may now take up to three snapper per person per day, an increase from the previous allowance of two.

The maximum per-boat limit has also risen, with groups of three or more permitted to take up to nine snapper per trip, up from six.

These changes follow updated regional catch share allocations and reflect the healthy stock status of snapper in this specific zone.

Mandatory catch reporting for snapper continues, and the ban on catching snapper in other state regions remains in force.

Further information is available on the SA Fishing App, the PIRSA website, and through signage at popular fishing spots.

Calamari Catch Limits Tighten Statewide

In contrast, a statewide reduction in Southern Calamari bag limits for recreational fishers has been imposed, prompted by recent scientific assessments and fishery management advice.

The daily personal bag limit now sits at 12 (down from 15), while the boat limit is capped at 36 for groups of three or more (previously 45).

A combined bag limit for Southern Calamari and Cuttlefish remains at 15, of which no more than 12 may be Southern Calamari. The combined boat limit for these species is 45, including a maximum of 36 Southern Calamari.

The Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA) says these changes address concerns over localised stock declines, particularly in Spencer Gulf and Gulf St Vincent, and align with commercial catch reductions of up to 15% in key areas.

Efforts are also underway to seek scientific and industry input on reducing bycatch in prawn trawl sectors, where undersized calamari are frequently caught.

Yellowtail Kingfish Commercial Limits Introduced

Commercial fishers now face a daily limit of three Yellowtail Kingfish per licence, a move designed to ensure this sector remains within its allocated share of the species. This measure also began on July 1st.

Overall, AFTA applauds these updated regulations, which reflect a targeted approach to marine sustainability while striving for equity among recreational and commercial fishing sectors.

For more information, see Recreational fishing.

South Australian Snapper Rebuilding Plan

South Australia’s snapper fishery has been closed since November 2019 after stocks in the West Coast, Spencer Gulf, and Gulf St Vincent were declared depleted. To revive populations and potentially reopen fishing after June 2026, PIRSA is developing a Snapper Rebuilding Plan in partnership with the Marine Scalefish Fishery Management Advisory Committee (MSFMAC). The plan will set target population sizes, thresholds for reopening, and permissible catch levels, with scientific modelling led by SARDI. A draft will go to stakeholders later this month, followed by review from the Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development.

Key elements include management objectives, estimated recovery milestones, criteria for reopening, performance indicators, and ongoing monitoring. The plan will be informed by a new stock assessment due in November 2025, guiding decisions on whether snapper fishing can resume in July 2026.

For more details, see: https://afta.net.au/south-australian-snapper-rebuilding-plan/

Queensland

AFTA acknowledges the strong support for our trade show from Minister Tony Perrett. Minister Perrett is fulfilling the election commitment of $35,000 in sponsorship to keep AFTA Public Day a free entry event, ensuring that the price is no barrier to entry for the many young families that attend.

Minister Perrett will officially speak at the Public Day on Saturday, July 26th.

Planning is well advanced for the AFTA Trade Show & Public Day 2026, which will be held in Brisbane

Western Australia

Hon. Bob Baldwin & Hon. Jackie Jarvis

Minister Jarvis’s leadership of this portfolio presents valuable opportunities to further initiatives that support the 750,000 recreational fishers across Western Australia, who collectively contribute $1.5 billion to the state’s economy.

Key topics addressed during the meeting included:

• Seasonal closures concerning Dhufish and Pink Snapper
• The status and anticipated release date of the Dhufish Stock Assessment report
• Challenges facing independent tackle stores, noting a decline of 20 stores over the past decade due to restrictive legislation, and the need for targeted support
• The potential impact of proposed dredging in Cockburn Sound, an essential habitat for pink snapper spawning aggregations on the lower west coast
• Closures in Exmouth and Marion Marine Parks and their effects on recreational fishing access;
• The prospect of conducting a Western Australian study into the New South Wales and Victorian models for enclosed waters management following the removal of indiscriminate netting
• Undertaking an economic study to compare the true benefits of recreational and commercial fisheries, with the aim of informing a more balanced triple bottom line approach to management
• Recognition of the social and health benefits associated with recreational fishing;
• The future direction of the ‘Dhufish Forever’ program, funded with $10 million through the West Coast Demersal Recovery Package by the Western Australian Government
• Addressing shark depredation by exploring the establishment of a local market for shark meat, including the promotion of flake as an alternative to imported catfish
• Concerns regarding Local Government Area (LGA) restrictions on fishing access—particularly recent 4WD track limitations imposed by three shires in the Midwest and Wheatbelt—and advocating for these matters to be managed at the state level to ensure fair social and access outcomes.

AFTA formally requested representation at the policy table and active involvement in policy discussions and consultations. Our objective is to ensure the perspectives of the recreational fishing sector are meaningfully represented in decision-making processes.

Victoria

 Major Hatchery Investment to Boost Native Fish Stocks

The Victorian Government has begun construction on a multi-million-dollar Macquarie Perch Recovery Centre at Snobs Creek Hatchery near Eildon, aiming to revive the iconic species in state rivers and creeks. Backed by a $15 million investment, the project will expand the Victorian Fisheries Authority’s facilities at Snobs Creek and Arcadia.

Once complete, the recovery centre is expected to produce up to 500,000 Macquarie perch fingerlings annually, restoring wild populations of this threatened native fish. The hatchery will also grow an additional 500,000 trout cod each year, while Murray cod production shifts to Arcadia, near Shepparton.

Key features include advanced water recirculation technology capable of reusing up to 400,000 litres daily and the ability to control environmental conditions for optimal fish growth precisely. The facility will be equipped with over 100 tanks and troughs, using ceramic membrane filtration and UV sterilisation to maintain water quality.

The initiative is part of a three-year research partnership between the Victorian and Federal governments, alongside industry and research groups, seeking to ‘crack the code’ for reliable Macquarie perch breeding. The Arcadia Native Fish Hatchery is also undergoing a major upgrade, expected to increase annual Murray cod and golden perch capacity to 6 million fish.

Tasmania

Tasmania is set to return to the polls on July 19th, 2025, following the passage of a no-confidence motion against Liberal Premier Jeremy Rockliff. Governor Barbara Baker AC has confirmed the early election on July 19th, just 15 months into the government’s four-year term.

The Australian Fishing Trade Association (AFTA) has thrown its support behind TARFish, encouraging stakeholders to review their local election manifestos. More details can be found here:

https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5ecf870f2388b536b2df5f23/t/685a1245b8852520c1344260/1750733382391/TARFish+Securing+Our+Fishing+Future+election+priorities+2025+-+final+for+distribution.pdf

In response, the Tasmanian Liberals have unveiled their “Strong Plan for Tasmanian Fishing” policy platform, aimed at reinforcing the state’s recreational fishing sector. Details are available at:

https://www.premier.tas.gov.au/our-plan/supporting-our-communities/a-strong-plan-for-tasmanian-fishing

Meanwhile, the Labor Opposition has yet to release any policy in response to the industry’s concerns. To date, the only other formal response to the TARFish manifesto has come from Independent Member David O’Byrne:

https://www.tarfish.org/news/davidobyrneresponse

Northern Territory

Territory Innovation – AI-Enhanced Artificial Reefs

In a bid to revitalise marine habitats and support sustainable fisheries, the Northern Territory is embracing innovation with the rollout of AI-enhanced artificial reefs. The project, spearheaded by In-Depth Innovations in collaboration with HB Group and Aboriginal Sea Company, is recycling concrete and oyster shells to create BioReef™ modules—the next generation of habitat for both fish and tourism.

A two-year trial scheduled for Darwin Harbour will see these prototype reefs equipped with underwater sensors and artificial intelligence. The technology aims to monitor ecological health and provide data-driven insights on the effectiveness of the new habitats. Backed by the NT Government’s Business Innovation Program, the initiative is designed to foster populations of popular species like golden snapper and coral trout.

Key features of the BioReef™ project include:

• Circular manufacturing: Repurposing materials that would otherwise end up in a landfill to deliver ecological gains.
• AI-powered monitoring: Advanced sensors and artificial intelligence will track ecosystem health in real time.
• Significant emissions reductions: Upcycled materials are expected to cut carbon emissions by up to 95% compared to traditional reef structures.
• Custom habitat design: Structures tailored for local species, informed by input from divers, fishers, and scientists.
• Biodiversity focus: Oyster shells incorporated to encourage marine colonisation and boost biodiversity.
• Engineered resilience: Reefs built to withstand cyclonic conditions, with a projected lifespan of more than 100 years.

With the trial underway, all eyes are on Darwin Harbour to see how cutting-edge technology and community collaboration can help secure a thriving future for the Northern Territory’s fisheries and marine ecosystems.

NSW

NSW Mulloway Harvest Strategy

The consultation period for the Draft NSW Mulloway Harvest Strategy has been further extended until midnight on Thursday, July 31st 2025.

Stakeholders can access detailed information about the draft strategy at https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fishing/harvest-strategies/have-your-say-draft-nsw-mulloway-harvest-strategy-and-management-options.

Feedback submitted during this period will be reviewed by the NSW Mulloway Harvest Strategy Working Group as part of the ongoing assessment of both the draft plan and its management options.

Once the review is complete, the finalised harvest strategy framework will be considered by NSW fishing advisory councils before being recommended to the Minister for Agriculture, Regional and Western NSW for formal approval.

Further details about harvest strategies in New South Wales are available on the DPIRD Fisheries website at https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fishing/harvest-strategies.

Youth Fishing Surge: #FishTok Community

Youth fishing is on the rise in NSW, with over 160 teens and families gathering in Sydney’s inner west at the state’s first #FishTok event. The surge, fuelled by TikTok’s vibrant fishing community and government support, coincides with the expansion of the ‘Get Hooked’ school fishing program into high schools.

Minister Tara Moriarty, TikTok Australia, and top fishing creator Shroom joined the event, promoting responsible angling and practical skills. With TikTok’s #FishTok hashtag surpassing 10 million videos, creators like Shroom—boasting 140,000 followers—are inspiring a new generation of anglers.

The revamped Get Hooked program now reaches over 66 high schools, teaching fishing, environmental stewardship, and hands-on skills, with curriculum-aligned lessons for Years 7–10. High schools can register for the free program via the DPIRD website. https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fishing/recreational/resources/schools-education-programs/high-schools-get-hooked

Please note, this is not the Let’s Go Fishing Program (https://afta.net.au/lets-go-fishing/ ) run by the Marine Teachers Association with the support of AFTA and the NSW DPI.

AFTA appreciate the efforts of the NSW government to grow recreational fishing in NSW, particularly in the youth sector.

Federal

FRDC MD Appointment

Sean Sloan, Deputy Secretary for the Fisheries and Forestry at the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, has been appointed Managing Director of the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation (FRDC), succeeding long-serving leader Dr Patrick Hone. With over 25 years of experience in fisheries and aquaculture, Sean Sloan is praised for his strategic vision and international expertise. FRDC Board Chair Dr Woods expressed confidence in Sean Sloan’s ability to guide the organisation through industry challenges and collaborate on the newly launched RD&E Plan 2025-30. Sean Sloan’s extensive background includes senior roles in Australian and Pacific fisheries agencies, and he is known for building effective, cross-functional teams.

Election Calendar

Victoria

November 28th, 2026