AFTA Chair’s Report – July 2026

Message from the Chair

This past month has been particularly encouraging for our industry, with both Commonwealth and State Governments actively seeking input from the recreational fishing sector on a broad range of policy, access and fisheries management issues.

From marine park reviews and fish stock recovery programs to access disputes and fisheries reform proposals, AFTA has had the opportunity to engage directly with Ministers, Members of Parliament, fisheries agencies and policymakers across Australia. This willingness to consult with stakeholders before decisions are made should be recognised and encouraged.

While it is often easy to focus on the negatives or criticise decisions from the sidelines, meaningful progress is achieved when individuals and organisations engage constructively in the policy process and contribute practical, evidence-based solutions. Effective advocacy is built on participation, professionalism and persistence.

Over the past month, AFTA has represented the interests of the recreational fishing sector through meetings in Canberra on the Commonwealth Marine Parks (30×30) Review, discussions with the Northern Territory Government on key fisheries issues, appearing before the NSW Parliamentary Inquiry into Public Land and Waterway Access , submissions to the Western Australian Parliamentary Inquiry into the Demersal Fishing Ban, input into Queensland fisheries management reforms, and engagement on the Victorian Mulloway Improvement Program, the South Australian Scale fish review amongst a range of advocacy activities.

These opportunities demonstrate that governments are increasingly seeking informed input from those who understand the sector and its importance to regional communities, tourism, small businesses, employment and public wellbeing.

I encourage all AFTA members, and indeed all recreational fishers, to participate whenever governments call for submissions, consultation feedback or community input. The simple reality is that if we do not participate in these discussions, others will shape the outcomes on our behalf.

Our sector is fortunate to possess an extraordinary depth of knowledge, practical experience and passion. Whether you are a retailer, manufacturer, distributor, charter operator, fishing media representative or recreational fisher, your experiences and perspectives matter. Policymakers need to hear directly from those who use, manage and value our fisheries and waterways.

Most importantly, we must continue demonstrating to governments at every level that recreational fishing cannot be taken for granted or overlooked when decisions are being made about access, fisheries management, marine parks, environmental policy or resource allocation. Recreational fishing delivers substantial economic, social, health and community benefits to Australians and deserves a strong and respected voice at the decision-making table.

On behalf of the Board, thank you to the many members who continue to contribute their expertise, provide feedback and support AFTA’s advocacy efforts. Together, we can continue to influence policy outcomes and help build a sustainable and prosperous future for recreational fishing in Australia.

SOUTH AUSTRALIA

South Australia’s New Snapper Rebuilding Plan Provides a Pathway Forward

The South Australian Government has released a new Snapper Rebuilding Plan, establishing a science-based framework to guide the long-term recovery of Snapper stocks in Spencer Gulf/West Coast and Gulf St Vincent.

For many recreational fishers and businesses affected by the various and ongoing closure of Snapper fishing since 2019, the Plan provides greater clarity about what is required before fishing opportunities can be restored.

Encouraging Signs of Recovery

The latest stock assessment indicates Snapper stocks were showing signs of recovery prior to the harmful algal bloom event in 2025. While this represents positive progress, uncertainty remains regarding the full impact of the bloom, particularly within Gulf St Vincent.

As a result, the South Australian Government has adopted a cautious approach, recognising that further scientific monitoring is required before any decisions regarding the reopening of currently closed fisheries can be made.

A Science-Based Pathway

Disappointingly, the Rebuilding Plan does not commit to reopening the fishery by a specific date. Instead, future decisions will be based on objective scientific indicators, including:

• Stock biomass levels.
• Evidence of successful recruitment of juvenile fish.
• Outcomes from future stock assessments.
• Scientific advice and management recommendations.

The Plan establishes clear decision rules designed to ensure future management remains transparent, predictable and grounded in the best available science.

Long-Term Management Framework

The Rebuilding Plan outlines a suite of management arrangements that will support stock recovery and help guide the fishery once reopening becomes possible. These include:

• Pre-determined decision rules for setting future catch limits.
• Catch reporting requirements.
• Seasonal spawning closures.
• Targeted spatial protections for key Snapper aggregation areas.
• Ongoing stock monitoring and assessment programs.

Additional biomass surveys and a further stock assessment are scheduled for 2026–27 to improve understanding of the impacts of the algal bloom and provide updated information on stock recovery.

The Role of Recreational Fishers

As stocks continue to recover, recreational fishers may encounter increasing numbers of Snapper while targeting other species. Fisheries managers are encouraging the adoption of best-practice fish handling and release techniques, including the use of release weights where appropriate, minimising handling time and moving away from areas where Snapper are being regularly encountered.

These measures will help support ongoing rebuilding efforts while providing valuable information to fisheries scientists monitoring stock recovery.

AFTA Perspective

AFTA supports management frameworks that are transparent, science-based and focused on achieving measurable stock recovery outcomes while maintaining a clear pathway back to recreational fishing access.

The South Australian Snapper fishery is an important recreational, social and economic asset. While the prolonged closure has been challenging for fishers, tackle businesses and regional communities, the release of a formal rebuilding plan provides somewhat greater certainty regarding the process that will guide future reopening decisions.

Whilst AFTA questions the continuation of the West Coast Snapper closure,  now in its 6^th year, AFTA will continue to monitor developments closely and advocate for a balanced approach that supports both stock recovery and the eventual return of sustainable recreational fishing opportunities when scientific evidence demonstrates that stocks have recovered to appropriate levels.

WESTERN AUSTRALIA

WA Mandatory Catch Reporting Proposal Raises Significant Concerns

The Western Australian government continues to pursue the introduction of mandatory real-time catch reporting for recreational demersal fishing as part of its broader demersal stock recovery strategy. The proposal follows a series of significant management changes already imposed on recreational fishers, including extended demersal fishing closures in the West Coast Bioregion and reduced bag and size limits across other regions.

If implemented, recreational fishers targeting selected demersal species will be required to electronically report catches in real time, although many operational details remain unclear.

AFTA Opposes Mandatory Reporting

AFTA has significant concerns regarding the proposed introduction of mandatory catch reporting and remains opposed to any system that imposes additional regulatory burdens on recreational fishers without clear, transparent and independently verified benefits.

The proposal represents a substantial shift in recreational fisheries management and raises important questions about trust, consultation, practicality and evidence-based decision-making.

Key Concerns

Broken Commitment

At the Minister’s Fisheries Forum on 20 October 2025, Minister Jarvis publicly and explicitly rejected mandatory reporting for recreational fishers. The subsequent decision to pursue statewide mandatory reporting has undermined stakeholder confidence and weakened trust in the consultation process.

Increased Regulatory Burden

Mandatory reporting introduces another layer of compliance for recreational fishers, many of whom fish occasionally, travel long distances, or operate in remote areas where mobile coverage and digital connectivity can be unreliable.

Lack of Evidence-Based Justification

To date, insufficient public evidence has been presented demonstrating that mandatory reporting is necessary or that it will materially improve stock sustainability outcomes beyond existing monitoring and data collection methods.

Impact on Participation

Additional compliance requirements risk discouraging participation in recreational fishing, potentially reducing the significant social, community and economic benefits generated by the sector across Western Australia and beyond.

Privacy and Enforcement Concerns

Important questions remain unanswered regarding data collection, privacy protections, compliance monitoring, enforcement costs and the overall administration of the proposed system.

Insufficient Consultation

AFTA believes any proposal of this magnitude should be subject to comprehensive stakeholder consultation, transparent cost-benefit analysis and independent review before implementation.

AFTA’s Position

AFTA supports science-based fisheries management and recognises the importance of collecting accurate fisheries data. However, governments must clearly demonstrate that any proposed reporting regime is proportionate, practical and capable of delivering measurable improvements in fisheries management outcomes.

Before mandatory reporting is introduced, AFTA believes governments should demonstrate:

• Existing data collection methods are inadequate.
• Mandatory reporting will improve stock assessments and management outcomes.
• The benefits outweigh the costs and compliance burden placed on recreational fishers.
• The system is practical, reliable and accessible for all anglers, regardless of location or technology access.

Looking Ahead

The Western Australian proposal has the potential to create a precedent for recreational fisheries management across Australia. Consequently, AFTA is monitoring developments closely and will continue advocating for management approaches that are evidence-based, transparent and proportionate.

AFTA remains committed to protecting fish stocks while preserving the rights of Australians to participate in recreational fishing without unnecessary regulatory burden. Sustainable fisheries and strong recreational participation are complementary objectives, and future management measures must deliver both outcomes.

VICTORIA

Victorian Mulloway Improvement Program Open for Public Consultation

The Victorian Fisheries Authority (VFA) has released a public consultation paper outlining a proposed Mulloway Improvement Program aimed at rebuilding and enhancing Victoria’s mulloway fishery through a combination of management reforms, scientific research and potential future stock enhancement initiatives.

Mulloway is one of Australia’s most iconic recreational sportfish, and the proposed program represents a significant step towards improving the long-term health and sustainability of the Victorian fishery while maintaining future fishing opportunities.

Proposed Short-Term Management Changes

As part of the consultation, the VFA is seeking feedback on two key regulatory changes:

• Reducing the recreational bag limit from five fish to two fish per person per day.
• Increasing the minimum legal size from 60 cm to 70 cm.

According to the VFA, the proposed size increase would provide approximately ten additional months of protection before fish become available for harvest, allowing more mulloway to reach sexual maturity and contribute to future recruitment. The proposed changes would also bring Victoria more closely into line with management arrangements already operating in neighbouring jurisdictions.

Expanding Research and Understanding

The program also proposes a renewed focus on scientific research to improve knowledge of mulloway populations and behaviour across southern Australia.

Key research initiatives include:

• Re-establishing a recreational angler tagging program to improve understanding of fish movement, growth rates and stock connectivity.
• Expanding scientific tracking programs within Melbourne’s river systems to better understand spawning behaviour, habitat use and environmental influences on the fishery.

These projects are intended to provide fisheries managers with better information to support future decision-making and improve the long-term management of the species.

Investigating Future Stock Enhancement

The VFA is also proposing to investigate the feasibility of captive breeding and experimental stocking of mulloway into Victorian estuaries.

This work would build on Victoria’s successful recreational fish stocking programs and could provide additional opportunities to enhance recreational fishing outcomes in the future. Any stocking proposal would be subject to further scientific assessment and evaluation before implementation.

Seeking Greater Consistency Across Jurisdictions

The Victorian Government has indicated it will continue working with recreational fishing stakeholders and fisheries agencies in neighbouring states to explore opportunities for greater consistency in mulloway management across southern Australia.

Given the species’ movement across jurisdictional boundaries, consistent management settings may assist both sustainability and compliance objectives.

Public Consultation Now Open

The consultation period runs from 15 July to 15 August 2026, providing recreational fishers, fishing organisations and industry stakeholders with an important opportunity to influence the future management of this highly valued species.

Stakeholders are being asked to provide feedback on whether the proposed Mulloway Improvement Program should be implemented in place of existing management arrangements and whether alternative or refined management approaches should be considered.

AFTA Perspective

AFTA welcomes the Victorian Government’s commitment to consulting with recreational fishers and recognises the importance of maintaining healthy mulloway populations for future generations.

As with all fisheries management proposals, AFTA believes decisions should be based on robust scientific evidence, transparent assessment processes and meaningful stakeholder engagement. Any regulatory changes should demonstrate clear fisheries management benefits while balancing the social, recreational and economic value that recreational fishing delivers to Victorian communities.

AFTA will continue to review the proposal and engage with stakeholders throughout the consultation period to ensure the views of the recreational fishing sector are appropriately represented.

For more detail see: https://vfa.vic.gov.au/recreational-fishing/proposed-mulloway-improvement-program-for-victoria

QUEENSLAND

Qld Government’s strong support for Tackle Show Public Day

AFTA acknowledges the ongoing personal support of Minister Tony Perrett for the AFTA Tackle Show Public Day, set to take place on 22 August at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre.

The event has seen strong year-on-year growth since entry was made free, attracting families and introducing the next generation to recreational fishing through hands-on engagement with leading fishing identities and the latest equipment.

Government sponsorship has been critical in maintaining free access, with more than 10,000 attendee registrations expected this year.

The $40,000 sponsorship support ensures the event remains accessible to the community while continuing to promote participation and showcase the strength of our industry.

Queensland Fisheries Consultation – AFTA Submits on Proposed Management Changes

The Queensland Government is currently seeking feedback on a range of proposed fisheries management changes aimed at improving the responsiveness and effectiveness of fisheries management while maintaining the long-term sustainability of Queensland’s freshwater and marine fisheries.

Following consultation with AFTA members and stakeholders, a submission was lodged on behalf of the Association addressing a number of significant proposals affecting recreational and commercial fishing sectors.

Freshwater Fisheries

AFTA broadly supports measures that improve recreational fishing opportunities while maintaining sustainable fish populations.

Key positions included support for increasing the silver perch possession limit in stocked impoundments, provided additional stocking programs are implemented to ensure long-term sustainability. AFTA also supported the inclusion of both Ross River Dam and Atkinson Dam within the Stocked Impoundment Permit Scheme, recognising the benefits of increased access, participation and funding for future stocking and habitat enhancement programs.

AFTA also supported administrative amendments to align management arrangements for Mary River cod at Woodford Weir with other stocked impoundments, improving consistency and reducing regulatory complexity for anglers.

Species Protection Measures

AFTA supported improved protection for Cooper Creek catfish through restrictions on take and possession, provided catch-and-release fishing remains available and no additional access restrictions are imposed on recreational fishers.

Conversely, AFTA did not support extending seasonal closures for Mary River cod into additional waterways within the Brisbane River, Bremer River and Bundamba Creek catchments. While supporting the conservation of native fish species, AFTA believes any further restrictions must be supported by clear scientific evidence demonstrating a genuine conservation need and measurable fisheries management benefits.

Murray Cod Management

The proposal to harmonise Murray cod regulations between Queensland and New South Wales generated considerable discussion.

AFTA acknowledged that greater regulatory consistency can benefit fishers who operate across state boundaries. However, insufficient information has been provided regarding the rationale and likely impacts of the proposal. AFTA’s submission noted that if harmonisation is to occur, consideration should extend to all jurisdictions within the Murray-Darling Basin to ensure a genuinely coordinated and consistent management framework.

Tropical Rock Lobster Fishery

AFTA supported the proposal to extend the Tropical Rock Lobster season by one month, provided ongoing stock assessments and independent peer-reviewed scientific reviews continue to demonstrate that the fishery remains sustainable.

The Association believes that where science supports increased access opportunities, fisheries management should provide flexibility to maximise recreational and commercial benefits while protecting long-term stock health.

Black Jewfish Proposals Raise Concerns

Several proposals relating to east coast Black Jewfish generated significant concern.

AFTA opposed the proposed introduction of an annual spawning closure between November and January, noting that the closure period coincides with peak summer holiday and tourism seasons and would have substantial impacts on recreational fishing participation, regional businesses and coastal communities.

Importantly, AFTA noted that no spawning closure currently exists and insufficient evidence has been presented to justify the introduction of a three-month closure.

AFTA also opposed the proposal to increase recreational possession and boat limits as a trade-off for the proposed closure. The current limit of one fish per person and two fish per boat remains appropriate and sustainable.

The submission also highlighted concerns arising from the previous fishery-wide closure that occurred after the commercial sector exceeded its Total Allowable Catch (TAC). AFTA reaffirmed its position that recreational and commercial harvest allocations should be managed independently to ensure one sector is not unfairly disadvantaged by the actions of another.

Commercial Processing Requirements

AFTA did not support proposals to introduce trunking requirements for commercial Black Jewfish where they create different compliance requirements between commercial and recreational sectors.

However, the Association recognised the operational needs of commercial fishers and supported arrangements allowing fish to be gilled and gutted to maintain product quality, provided sufficient identifying characteristics remain intact for compliance purposes.

Crab Fishery Improvements

AFTA supported the introduction of shark excluder devices on crab pots in Port Musgrave and surrounding waterways, provided the devices are practical, cost-effective and do not adversely impact legitimate fishing operations.

The Association supports responsible measures that reduce bycatch and improve environmental outcomes while maintaining access to sustainable fishing opportunities.

AFTA’s Overall Position

Throughout the submission process, AFTA advocated for a consistent principle: fisheries management decisions must be evidence-based, proportionate and developed in consultation with stakeholders.

Where proposals increase fishing opportunities and participation without compromising sustainability, AFTA has been supportive. Where additional restrictions are proposed, AFTA has called for clear scientific justification, transparent decision-making and consideration of the social, economic and community benefits that recreational fishing delivers to Queensland.

AFTA will continue to engage closely with Fisheries Queensland and stakeholders as these proposals progress and will keep members informed of any future decisions arising from the consultation process.

NEW SOUTH WALES

NSW Waterway Access Inquiry: AFTA Defends Recreational Fishing Access

AFTA recently appeared before the NSW Parliamentary Inquiry into Access Restrictions to Public Lands and Waterways to advocate for the interests of recreational fishers, regional communities and the broader fishing industry.

Representing AFTA before the Committee were President Greg Seeto and Chair Bob Baldwin, who outlined the importance of maintaining meaningful access to waterways for the more than one million people who participate in recreational fishing across New South Wales each year.

Recreational Fishing Delivers Significant Economic and Community Benefits

AFTA highlighted the scale of recreational fishing in NSW and its importance to regional economies, tourism and local businesses.

The sector supports an extensive retail and distribution network, including major national chains, specialist tackle stores, wholesalers and independent retailers. Collectively, these businesses service approximately one million recreational fishers annually throughout New South Wales.

According to the National Recreational Fishing Survey, approximately 1.29 million people participate in recreational fishing across NSW and the ACT each year, generating around 10 million fishing days annually. The sector contributes more than $4 billion in economic activity and supports almost 34,000 full-time equivalent jobs, making recreational fishing one of Australia’s most significant outdoor recreational activities.

Access Must Mean the Ability to Fish

AFTA’s central message to the Inquiry was straightforward: access must mean more than simply being able to visit a waterway.

The Association expressed concern that some stakeholders increasingly define “access” as the ability to undertake non-extractive activities while excluding recreational fishing.

AFTA strongly argued that for recreational fishers, genuine access includes the ability to participate in fishing. Restricting fishing activity while claiming waterways remain accessible does not constitute meaningful access and undermines the very purpose for which many people visit public waterways.

Growing Concerns Over Access Restrictions

The Inquiry heard that many recreational fishers are experiencing a gradual reduction in practical access due to a combination of factors, including:

• Reduced shoreline access.
• Vehicle access restrictions.
• Declining availability of boat launching facilities.
• Loss of safe entry points.
• Inadequate disability-accessible infrastructure.

While individual restrictions may appear minor, AFTA emphasised that their cumulative impact can significantly reduce participation, particularly in regional communities where recreational fishing forms an important part of local culture and economic activity.

More Than Just Fishing

AFTA also highlighted the broader social and health benefits associated with recreational fishing.

Research supported by the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation (FRDC) demonstrates that recreational fishing contributes to improved mental health, reduced stress, increased physical activity and stronger social connections. For many Australians, fishing provides valuable opportunities for family participation, intergenerational engagement and time spent outdoors in natural environments.

These benefits are particularly important in regional and rural communities, where recreational fishing remains one of the most accessible and affordable outdoor activities available.

Key Recommendations to the Inquiry

AFTA urged the Committee to recognise recreational fishing as a legitimate and valuable use of public waterways and to ensure future decision-making remains evidence-based and proportionate.

Key recommendations included:

• Recognition that meaningful access includes the ability to fish.
• Protection of public access to waterways and associated infrastructure.
• Improved accessibility for people with disabilities, older Australians and regional communities.
• Consideration of the economic impacts of access restrictions on local businesses and tourism.
• Avoidance of unnecessary restrictions that reduce participation and undermine regional economies.

Looking Ahead

The Inquiry presents an important opportunity to reaffirm the value of recreational fishing as a major contributor to community wellbeing, regional development and the NSW economy.

AFTA’s evidence focused on ensuring policymakers understand that access to waterways is not simply an environmental or land management issue—it is also a social, economic and public health issue affecting more than one million recreational fishers and thousands of businesses across New South Wales.

AFTA will continue to advocate strongly for practical, affordable and meaningful access to public waterways, recognising that access is fundamental to participation and to the long-term future of recreational fishing in Australia.

A link to the evidence that was provided is available here.

NORTHERN TERRITORY

Northern Territory Recreational Fishing – Key Issues and Emerging Challenges

During July, I travelled to Darwin to meet with the Hon. Gerard Maley MLA, Northern Territory Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries, to discuss the Northern Territory Government’s priorities for recreational fishing and several key fisheries management issues affecting the sector.

The discussions provided valuable insight into the Government’s long-term direction for recreational fishing, fish stock management, access issues and the future of the Territory’s iconic barramundi fishery.

Barramundi Gill Net Buyback Remains on Track

Minister Maley reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to phasing out the Territory’s remaining 14 commercial barramundi gill net licences, a reform strongly supported by the recreational fishing sector.

While the policy decision has been made, the structural adjustment package is still being finalised. The final commercial barramundi gill net season is scheduled to conclude on 30 September 2027, with the licence buyback program expected to commence from 1 July 2027. The Government remains committed to achieving a completely gillnet-free commercial barramundi fishery from 1 January 2028.

The Minister advised that current work is focused on compensation arrangements, alternative commercial fishing methods and the development of a long-term management framework that supports commercial viability while delivering improved outcomes for recreational fishing and tourism.

Golden Snapper Recovery a Major Priority

A significant portion of discussions focused on the critically depleted golden snapper stocks in the Greater Darwin region.

The latest stock assessment estimates biomass at only 14 per cent of unfished levels, down from 21 per cent in 2024, making stock recovery one of the Territory’s highest fisheries management priorities.

Importantly, this is considered a regional issue centred around the Greater Darwin area rather than a Territory-wide stock collapse. The Government is currently developing a formal Golden Snapper Recovery Plan, with management options including possession limits, area closures, seasonal protections and other measures still under consideration.

AFTA emphasised that while stock recovery is essential, management measures must be proportionate, scientifically justified and designed to minimise unnecessary impacts on recreational fishers. We also advocated for investment in complementary recovery initiatives such as hatchery production, stocking programs, artificial reefs, fish aggregating devices (FADs) and habitat enhancement projects.

Black Jewfish Management Focused on Localised Issues

The Minister also provided an update on black jewfish management, particularly around Channel Point where localised depletion concerns have prompted increased monitoring and targeted management action.

Unlike golden snapper, black jewfish is not considered to be experiencing a Territory-wide stock issue. Rather, concerns are centred on specific fishing hotspots where concentrated fishing effort has resulted in declining catch rates.

The Government’s temporary management measures at Channel Point are being assessed to determine whether further action is required. Discussions reinforced the importance of targeted management responses that address localised issues without imposing unnecessary restrictions across the broader fishery.

AFTA reiterated its support for evidence-based and proportionate management measures designed to protect fish stocks while maintaining reasonable recreational fishing access.

Access, Indigenous Fisheries and Future Management

The meeting also covered broader policy issues impacting recreational fishing, including access arrangements in Indigenous-owned waters, ongoing implications of the Blue Mud Bay decision, and the importance of maintaining practical public access to fishing opportunities while respecting the rights of Traditional Owners.

Minister Maley acknowledged that balancing recreational, commercial, Indigenous and tourism interests remains one of the most complex challenges facing fisheries managers across the Northern Territory.

The Government’s Recreational Fishing Development Plan 2023–2033 continues to focus on improving fishing infrastructure, habitat protection, fisheries research and growing recreational fishing participation across the Territory.

AFTA’s Perspective

The Northern Territory remains one of Australia’s premier recreational fishing destinations, but faces several significant challenges including stock recovery, growing fishing pressure, access arrangements and increasing regulatory complexity.

AFTA will continue to engage constructively with the Northern Territory Government and Fisheries NT to ensure that future management decisions are evidence-based, transparent and developed in consultation with recreational fishers.

The discussions with Minister Maley reinforced the Government’s commitment to sustainable fisheries management, while also highlighting the need to strike the right balance between protecting fish stocks and maintaining the recreational fishing opportunities that contribute so much to the Territory’s lifestyle, tourism industry and regional economy.

FEDERAL

Commonwealth Marine Parks Review (30×30) – AFTA Engages with Political Leaders in Canberra

On 1–2 July, I travelled to Canberra to meet with political leaders from across the Government, Opposition and Crossbench to discuss the Commonwealth Government’s commitment to protect 30 per cent of Australia’s oceans through highly protected marine areas by 2030, commonly referred to as the “30×30” initiative.

While the review does not propose the creation of new marine parks, it will examine the zoning arrangements within Australia’s 44 Commonwealth Marine Parks and determine whether additional areas will be classified as highly protected sanctuary zones where recreational fishing may be prohibited.

This review represents one of the most important public policy discussions affecting the future of offshore recreational fishing access in Australia and will have significant implications for regional communities, tourism operators, tackle retailers and the wider recreational fishing industry.

What’s at Stake?

The Commonwealth Government has committed to achieving 30 per cent highly protected marine areas by 2030. The current review, which will continue through 2026 and 2027, will determine how that target is achieved and what impact any zoning changes may have on public access.

For recreational fishers, the review is fundamentally about access.

Decisions made over the next 12 to 18 months will influence where future generations of Australians can fish and whether traditional fishing areas remain available for sustainable recreational use.

AFTA Supports Conservation and Access

During discussions with Parliamentarians, AFTA made it clear that the recreational fishing sector supports marine conservation and the protection of genuinely significant ecological areas.

However, conservation outcomes and recreational access should not be viewed as mutually exclusive.

AFTA supports:

• Science-based marine conservation.
• Protection of high-value ecological habitats.
• Sustainable fisheries management.
• Evidence-based decision-making.

At the same time, AFTA opposed any blanket expansion of no-take sanctuary zones where there is no clear scientific justification and where socio-economic impacts have not been fully assessed.

Recreational Fishing Must Be Recognised

A key message delivered during the meetings was that recreational fishing is a legitimate, sustainable and socially valuable use of Australia’s marine environment.

Recreational fishing contributes substantially to:

• Regional economies.
• Tourism businesses.
• Local employment.
• Community wellbeing.
• Physical and mental health outcomes.

Importantly, recreational fishers also play a significant stewardship role in protecting marine environments and supporting conservation initiatives.

AFTA emphasised that these contributions must be properly recognised throughout the review process.

Economic Impacts Cannot Be Ignored

Many coastal and regional communities rely heavily on fishing-related tourism and expenditure.

Changes to marine park zoning can have significant consequences for:

• Charter businesses.
• Tackle retailers.
• Accommodation providers.
• Fuel suppliers.
• Boat dealers and marine businesses.
• Hospitality and tourism operators.

AFTA stressed that socio-economic impacts must be assessed alongside environmental outcomes when future zoning decisions are being considered.

Conservation objectives must be balanced against the needs of communities whose livelihoods and economies depend on fishing participation.

Consultation Must Be Balanced and Evidence-Based

AFTA also raised concerns about ensuring the review process remains transparent, balanced and evidence-based.

The Association has called for:

• Equal consideration of all stakeholder views.
• Robust scientific assessment.
• Comprehensive socio-economic analysis.
• Targeted, rather than blanket, sanctuary zone expansion.
• Retention of access where recreational fishing can continue sustainably.

Policy decisions of this magnitude should not be driven solely by advocacy campaigns but should be based on demonstrable environmental need and measurable conservation outcomes.

The Road Ahead

The Commonwealth Marine Parks Review remains in its consultation phase and the next 12–18 months will be critical in determining future access arrangements.

AFTA will continue to engage actively with Ministers, Shadow Ministers, Crossbench MPs and officials to ensure the recreational fishing sector has a strong voice throughout the process.

AFTA’s Position

AFTA believes Australia can meet its international conservation commitments while continuing to provide sustainable access for recreational fishers.

A well-designed marine park system should protect biodiversity, support healthy marine ecosystems and maintain appropriate public access where recreational fishing can occur responsibly and sustainably.

The challenge for governments is not choosing between conservation and access—it is achieving both.

AFTA will continue advocating for balanced, science-based marine park policies that protect our marine environment while safeguarding the recreational fishing opportunities, regional jobs and economic activity that millions of Australians rely upon and enjoy.

ELECTION CALENDAR

• Victoria: November 28th 2026
• NSW: March 13th 2027
• Federal: May 2028
• Northern Territory: August 23rd 2028
• Queensland: October 28th 2028
• Western Australia: March 10th 2029
• Tasmania: 2029