AFTA Chair’s Report – June 2026

Message from the Chair

Industry Update: H5 Avian Influenza – Relevance to Recreational Fishers

The recent detection of High Pathogenicity Avian Influenza (H5) in migratory seabirds off Western Australia, while contained to wild bird populations, has important implications for the recreational fishing community and broader outdoor recreation sector.

At present, there are no direct impacts on fishing activity, access to waterways, or the safety of seafood. However, recreational fishers should recognise that these detections highlight the close relationship between marine ecosystems, wildlife health, and human activity. Many of the affected species, such as skuas and giant petrels, are coastal and offshore scavengers that interact with marine environments frequented by fishers.

From a practical perspective, fishers may encounter sick or dead seabirds while on the water or along beaches. It is essential that these animals are not handled and are reported to authorities, as H5 avian influenza is a notifiable disease. Maintaining good personal hygiene and avoiding contact with wildlife are simple but important precautions.

AFTA supports the coordinated national response and emphasises the importance of clear communication to ensure recreational fishers are well-informed, vigilant, and confident to continue enjoying their activities safely. Members are encouraged to stay updated through official channels and to play their part in supporting biosecurity efforts.

AFTA will continue to monitor developments closely and provide advice should any changes arise that affect fishing access, environmental conditions, or community safety.

Visit agriculture.gov.au here.

June 27 Update: Click here to read

Market and Regulatory Environment – Emerging Import Pressures

AFTA is closely monitoring the rapid growth of imported fishing-related products entering the Australian market through both parallel import channels and Low Value Threshold (LVT) personal imports via global e-commerce platforms such as eBay, Amazon, Temu, Digitaka and Shein to name but a few. This accelerating shift in retail dynamics is reshaping competitive conditions across the sector and presents both immediate and longer-term implications for Australian businesses.

It is critical that members understand that all businesses operating within Australia and those supplying to Australia are required to comply with Australian Taxation Office (ATO), ACCC and Australian Consumer Law (ACL), and Standards Australia requirements. These obligations remain in place regardless of how competing products enter the market. AFTA continues to highlight increasing consumer confusion around warranty and product support, particularly where goods are purchased from offshore platforms. Under Australian Consumer Law, responsibility for warranties rests with the supplier of the product—not authorised Australian distributors—yet this distinction is often poorly understood in practice.

Ensuring a level regulatory playing field, maintaining product integrity, and upholding consumer protections are central to sustaining confidence in the Australian fishing trade sector. AFTA has commenced engagement with the Australian Government to ensure appropriate application of tax, compliance and regulatory frameworks to all imported goods, including those entering under LVT arrangements.

AFTA will keep members informed as to the progress.

SOUTH AUSTRALIA

Regulatory Update: South Australia Knife Laws – Implications for Tackle Retailers

From 1 July 2026, new knife sale regulations in South Australia will come into force as part of the State Government’s knife crime reforms, with direct implications for fishing tackle retailers and associated businesses.

All retailers—both physical and online—will be required to clearly display or provide notices advising that knives cannot be sold to persons under 18 and that identification may be required. These requirements apply across all sales channels, including in-store, online and click-and-collect transactions.

Importantly, most knives with a sharp edge or point will be classified as “prescribed knives” and subject to secure storage requirements. However, in recognition of current industry pressures, a temporary exemption has been granted to fishing tackle stores from these storage requirements, provided the premises primarily sell fishing equipment. This exemption is time-limited and will expire after two years.

While this provides short-term relief, all affected businesses must continue to comply with signage and age-verification requirements and should begin planning for future compliance with storage rules.

AFTA notes the importance of ensuring members are aware of these changes and prepared for implementation. Further guidance and practical compliance support will be provided to members as the implementation date approaches and as additional clarification becomes available.

For more details see: https://www.agd.sa.gov.au/law-and-justice/legislation/knife-crime-laws

Ongoing Impacts of Algal Bloom and Need for Continued Support

The long-term impacts of harmful algal blooms, and the associated species closures, continue to place sustained pressure on the recreational fishing sector in South Australia. While these measures are necessary to support stock sustainability, the consequences extend well beyond individual fishers, impacting tackle retailers, manufacturers, tourism operators and the many regional communities that depend on fishing-related activity for economic stability.

AFTA acknowledges and appreciates the strong support provided by the South Australian Government, particularly through the $300,000 Let’s Fish SA awareness campaign and the $200,000 Junior Tacklebox Program. Both initiatives have delivered measurable success, as demonstrated in KPI reporting to Government, effectively driving participation, supporting small businesses and maintaining engagement across the sector during a challenging period.

However, with ongoing species closures—including the scalefish closures introduced on 1 May 2026 and the extension of the West Coast Snapper closure through to 2027—the sector continues to operate under significant constraint. These necessary management settings are having an ongoing impact on participation rates, retail performance and regional economic activity.

Importantly, as the industry enters the winter period, traditionally a quieter trading season, these pressures are further compounded. This reinforces the need for continued, targeted support to sustain momentum and encourage participation through the promotion of alternative fishing opportunities across South Australia.

In recognition of these challenges, AFTA has formally written to the Hon. Peter Malinauskas MP, Premier of South Australia, and the Hon. Clare Scriven MLC, Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development, seeking a further $300,000 investment to deliver a second phase of the Let’s Fish SA program.

This proposed extension will build on the proven success of the initial campaign, providing continued market activation, supporting regional businesses, and helping to stabilise the sector during an extended period of environmental and regulatory disruption.

AFTA will continue to advocate strongly for practical, evidence-based support measures that recognise the full economic and social contribution of recreational fishing and ensure the long-term resilience and sustainability of the industry and the communities it supports.

See letter here: https://afta.net.au/ongoing-impacts-of-sa-algal-bloom-and-need-for-continued-support/

The KPI Report on the “Let’s Fish SA” Program is available here: https://afta.net.au/lets-fish-sa-campaign-results/

National Office for Algal Bloom Research Established in Adelaide

AFTA welcome the announcement that Australia’s first dedicated national hub for algal bloom research has been established in Adelaide, marking a significant step forward in coordinated science and management capability. The $3.2 million Office for Algal Bloom Research is based within the South Australian Research and Development Institute (SARDI), positioning South Australia at the forefront of algal bloom monitoring, research and response.

The new Office forms part of a broader $37 million joint investment by the Federal and South Australian Governments under the Algal Bloom Science Program, aimed at strengthening national capacity in research, surveillance and response.

This research is critical in developing a scientific understanding the cause and mitigation of the disastrous effects witnessed  in the past summer season.  The impact on the environment and our recreational fishing sector

The establishment of the Office and broader program is supported under the jointly funded $162.5 million government response to the recent harmful algal bloom event in South Australia, reflecting the growing importance of national leadership in this area.

Read More here:  https://afta.net.au/national-office-for-algal-bloom-research-opens-in-adelaide/

WESTERN AUSTRALIA

AFTA Raises Concerns Over Selective Discrimination in WA Tackle Shop Rebate Program

The Australian Fishing Trade Association (AFTA) is extremely disappointed in the Western Australian Government’s failure to address significant fairness and transparency issues in its $3.3 million Recreational Fishing Voucher – Tackle Shop Rebate Program, following strong concerns raised by members across the state.

While the program is intended to support retailer sustainability during recent government‑mandated fishing closures, AFTA has warned that the current design is discriminatory, excluding major retailers and disadvantaging businesses that employ hundreds of Western Australians.

AFTA has questioned Fisheries Minister Jackie Jarvis on why large operators such as BCF and Anaconda—which together employ more than 900 staff across 33 WA stores—were omitted from the scheme, despite competing directly with participating outlets. The association emphasised that the impacts of recent fisheries management changes are being felt across the entire retail sector, not just among selected businesses.

AFTA formally requested clarity on the eligibility criteria to ensure the program is equitable, transparent and accessible to all retailers who meet the requirements; sadly however, Minister Jarvis has confirmed that the policy will remain unchanged.

AFTA consider that response inadequate and unconscionable. AFTA maintains that without inclusion open to all stores, the program risks distorting competition and undermining the very retail sustainability it aims to support.

A copy of AFTA’s letter to Minister Jarvis is available here: AFTA seeks clarification on WA’s Recreational Fishing Voucher – Tackle Shop Rebate Program https://afta.net.au/afta-seeks-clarification-on-was-recreational-fishing-voucher-tackle-shop-rebate-program/

As at the time of publishing this newsletter, no formal response has been received from Minister Jarvis

VICTORIA

Talking Trout 2026 – Supporting Knowledge, Engagement and Participation

The Australian Trout Foundation (ATF), in partnership with the Victorian Fisheries Authority (VFA), will again deliver Talking Trout 2026, a free conference bringing together the recreational fishing community, researchers and industry experts.

Scheduled for Saturday, 1 August 2026, the event provides a valuable platform for knowledge sharing across all aspects of trout fisheries in Victoria. Recreational fishers, scientists, fishing guides and fisheries managers will come together to discuss the latest developments in research, fisheries management, habitat restoration and the future direction of trout fishing.

The conference continues to grow in both scale and relevance, attracting hundreds of passionate participants each year. It delivers practical value to attendees through improved fishing knowledge, exposure to emerging science and management approaches, and the opportunity to build industry and community connections.

This year’s event will be held at a new venue in Ringwood, improving accessibility for participants, with all-day catering provided. The keynote address will be delivered by Australian Fly Fishing Champion Tom Jarman, who will present insights from his extensive experience, including representing Australia at multiple World Championships. His presentation will focus on seasonal fishing strategies, key waterways and effective angling techniques.

A broad program of speakers and panel discussions will cover both lake and river fisheries, with interactive sessions allowing direct audience engagement.

Initiatives such as Talking Trout play an important role in strengthening participation, supporting education and fostering collaboration across the sector. AFTA recognises the value of these programs in building a more informed, connected and resilient recreational fishing community.

For more details and online booking see: https://afta.net.au/victorian-talking-trout-event/

QUEENSLAND

AFTA Advances Queensland Recreational Fishing Priorities at Ministerial Discussions

• AFTA Directors Kord Luckus (Wilson Tackle), Steve Morgan, and I met with Minister Tony Perrett at Parliament House on 3 June to progress AFTA’s advocacy for stronger recreational fishing outcomes in Queensland.

Discussions centred on several priority issues for the sector, including proposed changes to Spanish Mackerel bag limits, the need for clearer rules on fillet‑versus‑legal‑length requirements, and the future of netting practices in Queensland, including the ongoing use of tunnel nets.

Key Issues Raised

• Spanish Mackerel bag limits — AFTA reiterated its position that the recreational bag limit should be increased to two fish per person, reflecting both stock recovery and community expectations.
• Netting reforms — We sought clarity on the government’s approach to the future of all netting in Queensland, including tunnel nets, and emphasised the need for reforms that balance sustainability with fair access for recreational fishers.
• SEQ Barramundi management — Queensland Director Steve Morgan raised concerns regarding the lack of communication following consultation on the proposal to remove Barramundi as a commercial species in Region 5 (South East Queensland). Since consultation closed, 6,643 kg of Barramundi have been commercially harvested from Tin Can Bay south — a significant take given the pending decision. The Minister advised that the next step in the process is imminent, which AFTA strongly welcomes for the benefit of SEQ Barramundi stocks.
• Shark depredation and fishery management — Queensland Director Kord Lukus highlighted escalating shark depredation and the need to open the shark fishery as a population‑control measure. He also urged the government to support development of a viable domestic market for shark meat (flake) as a sustainable alternative to imported Basa (catfish).

AFTA’s Position

AFTA reaffirmed its commitment to working constructively with government to deliver balanced, evidence‑based and sustainable outcomes that support:

·         Recreational fishers
·         Regional communities
·         The broader fishing trade and supply chain

Our focus remains on ensuring Queensland’s fisheries are managed in a way that protects long‑term stock health while maintaining fair access and supporting the economic contribution of the recreational fishing sector.

$40k Qld Government support for Tackle Show Public Day

AFTA has acknowledged 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.

AFTA said 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.

NEW SOUTH WALES

NSW Inquiry into Waterway Access – Implications for Recreational Fishing

The NSW Select Committee Inquiry into Access Restrictions to Public Lands and Waterways places recreational fishing at the centre of a critical policy debate. AFTA’s position is clear: access must mean the ability to fish—not simply the ability to be present at waterways.

AFTA will be represented at the 3 July hearing at NSW Parliament House by President Greg Seeto and Chair, The Hon. Bob Baldwin, ensuring a strong and direct industry voice.

The Terms of Reference are broad, covering waterways, marine parks, aquatic reserves, foreshore areas, and all forms of access by foot, vehicle and vessel. They also assess the economic, social and recreational impacts of restrictions, and whether current frameworks are evidence-based, proportionate and supported by adequate consultation.

Submissions reveal a clear divide. Many stakeholders argue that access to traditional fishing locations is being progressively reduced without sufficient consultation or scientific justification. Others advocate for increased environmental protections, even where this results in further restrictions on fishing.

AFTA supports the Recreational Fishing Alliance of NSW (RFA) submission, which reinforces that access is fundamental to participation and should be recognised as a public right underpinning community wellbeing, cultural connection and regional economies. This aligns with AFTA’s longstanding position that access must include the ability to fish.

A key issue is the changing definition of “access.” While some consider waterways accessible if open to non-extractive activities, the fishing sector is clear—without the ability to fish, access is effectively restricted.

The inquiry also highlights the importance of practical access. Reduced shore access, vehicle restrictions, limited moorings, and the loss of safe entry points are having a cumulative impact. For many fishers, particularly in regional areas, access depends on interconnected infrastructure—removing any one element can prevent participation.

Mental health and wellbeing have emerged as important themes, with many submissions linking fishing to reduced stress, improved wellbeing, and stronger social connections. Accessibility for people with disabilities has also been identified as an area requiring greater focus, particularly in relation to infrastructure and vehicle access.

AFTA will continue to advocate for:

• Meaningful access that includes the ability to fish
• Evidence-based, proportionate decision-making
• Recognition of recreational fishing as a legitimate use of public waterways
• Improved accessibility and inclusion
• No further restrictions that negatively impact participation and small businesses across NSW

This inquiry presents a critical opportunity to reinforce the role of access in sustaining participation, supporting regional economies, and securing the long-term future of recreational fishing in New South Wales. Further restrictions will directly impact small businesses and the broader industry that depends on an active fishing community.

Offshore Artificial Reef Installed off Ballina to Boost Recreational Fishing

A new offshore artificial reef has been successfully installed off the coast of Ballina, marking another important investment in enhancing recreational fishing opportunities and supporting regional economic activity.

The installation, which involves a purpose-built steel reef structure deployed on the seabed, is designed to create productive fish habitat by attracting and aggregating key target species. Over time, these reefs become thriving ecosystems, supporting increased fish stocks and providing improved fishing experiences for recreational anglers.

Artificial reefs play a critical role in fisheries enhancement by providing additional structure in otherwise featureless offshore environments. This not only increases local fish abundance but also helps distribute fishing effort, reducing pressure on natural habitats and supporting long-term sustainability outcomes.

For the recreational fishing sector, the benefits are clear. Improved catch rates, greater species diversity and new accessible fishing locations contribute directly to increased participation. In turn, this drives positive economic outcomes for local communities, including tackle retailers, charter operators, accommodation providers and other tourism-related businesses.

The Ballina reef installation reflects a broader commitment to investing in practical, evidence-based initiatives that deliver both environmental and economic benefits. Programs such as this demonstrate how targeted infrastructure can support healthy fisheries while strengthening regional economies.

AFTA welcomes continued investment in artificial reef programs as a proven mechanism to enhance fishing opportunities, support participation and deliver long-term value across the recreational fishing sector and the communities it supports.

For more information on artificial reefs, please visit: Artificial reefs

Saving Our Underwater Forests – Strengthening the Future of Fisheries

A significant new research initiative led by the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) is positioning Australia at the forefront of efforts to protect and restore underwater kelp forests—critical ecosystems that underpin the health and productivity of our fisheries.

Kelp forests are among the most important marine habitats, providing essential food, shelter and breeding grounds for thousands of species. They also play a key role in improving water quality, absorbing carbon dioxide and protecting coastlines from erosion. However, these ecosystems are increasingly under pressure from climate change, with warming ocean temperatures driving widespread decline both in Australia and globally.

In response, a world-class, internationally collaborative research project is now underway to enhance the climate resilience of kelp forests and secure their long-term future. Led by DPIRD scientists Dr Melinda Coleman and Dr Hugh Goold, the project is exploring innovative approaches to understanding and strengthening the genetic traits that enable marine species to withstand changing ocean conditions.

The research will initially focus on microalgae—organisms that are faster growing and easier to study—to identify key climate-tolerance traits. These insights will then be applied to more complex species such as golden kelp (Ecklonia radiata), with the aim of developing advanced tools that can support future restoration and resilience efforts.

Importantly, this work forms part of the NSW Government’s Marine Estate Management Strategy 2018–2028, reinforcing a long-term, evidence-based approach to protecting waterways, coastlines and fisheries resources. The project has also attracted global attention, securing support from leading international conservation organisation Revive & Restore and collaboration with research institutions across Saudi Arabia, France and Australia.

Beyond environmental outcomes, the implications for the recreational fishing sector are significant. Healthy kelp forests directly support fish abundance and diversity, which in turn underpins participation and the economic contribution of recreational fishing. Ensuring the resilience of these ecosystems is therefore critical not only for biodiversity, but also for the long-term sustainability of the fishing industry and the regional communities it supports.

AFTA strongly supports investment in innovative, science-based initiatives such as this, which recognise the intrinsic link between habitat health and fisheries productivity. Continued leadership in marine research and restoration will be essential to ensuring our fisheries remain resilient, accessible and productive for future generations.

NORTHERN TERRITORY

Barramundi Stocking Strengthens Participation and Regional Opportunity in the Northern Territory

The Northern Territory Government has commenced its 2026 Barramundi stocking program, releasing more than 110,000 fish into key Top End waterways as part of its ongoing commitment to supporting recreational fishing and regional economic activity.

The annual program targets lakes, lagoons and dams across the Greater Darwin region, ensuring accessible and sustainable fishing opportunities for both locals and visitors. Barramundi, a cornerstone species for Northern Territory recreational fishing, plays a vital role in driving participation, tourism and employment across the region.

This year’s release includes more than 110,000 fingerlings up to 20 cm, along with 500 larger fish between 30–50 cm. All fish were bred at the Darwin Aquaculture Centre and carefully acclimatised from saltwater to freshwater prior to release—an essential step, given that Barramundi breed only naturally in marine environments.

Stocking programs such as this are critical to maintaining healthy fish populations in inland systems including Manton Dam and Palmerston’s urban lakes, while also providing consistent and rewarding fishing experiences.

Recreational fishing participation remains strong across the Territory, with approximately 30,000 people engaging in the activity each year. Importantly, the program also contributes to fisheries research, with Fisheries NT and AFANT continuing to tag and monitor stocked fish to inform future management.

The recent release at Marlow Lagoon coincides with the launch of the 2026 Hooked on Palmerston catch-and-release competition, which runs through to 31 January 2027. The initiative encourages community participation and promotes local fishing opportunities, with monthly prizes and a focus on key locations including Marlow Lagoon, Durack Lakes and Sanctuary Lakes.

Programs such as the Barramundi stocking initiative demonstrate the value of targeted investment in fisheries enhancement. By supporting participation, strengthening regional economies and underpinning tourism, these initiatives continue to deliver strong economic, social and well-being benefits.

AFTA recognises the importance of stocking programs as a practical, evidence-based approach to fisheries management and ongoing industry growth, particularly in regions where recreational fishing plays such a central role in lifestyle and economic activity.

Two winners will receive a $200 BCF gift card each month during the competition. Participating locations include Marlow Lagoon, Durack Lakes and Sanctuary Lakes.

Registration is free and now open at palmerston.nt.gov.au. Information on recreational fishing rules in the Northern Territory is available at nt.gov.au/marine/recreational-fishing.

Northern Territory Barra Fishing Continues to Deliver Record Results and a Major Economic Benefit to the NT

The Northern Territory continues to reinforce its reputation as Australia’s barramundi fishing capital, with exceptional results being recorded across major events and competitions.

Round 3 of the 2026 Top End Barra Series (TEBS) on the Adelaide River showcased the quality of the fishery, delivering outstanding catches and strong participation. Competitors reported consistent fishing throughout the system, with a number of exceptional fish recorded. John Kiers claimed the Old School category, while Kalan Matthews secured the Open category and landed the largest fish of the round at an impressive 120cm. Notably, junior angler Michael Bates produced a standout performance with a 99cm barramundi, highlighting the strength and future of the next generation of Territory anglers.

At the same time, the Barra Nationals delivered record-breaking results, with an extraordinary 2,237 barramundi caught across the competition—an achievement that underscores the strength, sustainability and productivity of the Northern Territory fishery. Key highlights included a 115cm barra landed by Dylan O’Donnell, while Tristan Christie was named Champion Angler with 92 fish measuring a total of 6,109cm. Team Metery Maniacs secured the Champion Team title.

These results are particularly significant given the recent challenges in some regions, including the impacts of flooding in areas such as the Daly River. The success of these events reflects not only the resilience of the fishery, but also the commitment of organisers, volunteers, sponsors and participants.

Looking ahead, the momentum continues, with the iconic NT Barra Classic approaching. The event program will again highlight participation across all age groups, including the Junior Barra Classic on 6 July, the Barra Classic Masters event for anglers aged 60 and over from 7–9 July, and the main Barra Classic from 7–13 July.

Together, these events demonstrate the strength of recreational fishing in the Northern Territory, delivering significant economic, community and tourism benefits. They also reinforce the importance of continued investment and support for fisheries management, participation programs and event initiatives that sustain the Territory’s world-class barra fishery.

Recreational fishers look forward to the CLP Government delivering on its promise to remove the 14 Gillnet Licences in Darwin, the removal will exponentially improve the health of the barramundi fishery and drive recreational fishing tourism in the NT.

FEDERAL

Australian Marine Parks Review – Implications for Recreational Fishing

The Australian Government has commenced a review of management plans across four Australian Marine Park networks and the Coral Sea Marine Park, with outcomes that will have significant implications for recreational fishing access and participation.

A central driver of the review is the Government’s commitment to ensure that 30% of Australia’s marine environment is classified as “highly protected” by 2030. To achieve this target, an additional 523,980 km² will need to be transitioned into highly protected zoning within existing marine parks. While the Government has stated it is not entering the process intending to create new marine parks, boundary adjustments and zoning refinements within existing parks are expected, with the possibility of new areas not entirely ruled out.

From a recreational fishing perspective, this has clear implications. Highly protected zones (IUCN I and II) exclude extractive activities, meaning any expansion of these areas could reduce access to traditional fishing grounds and affect participation.

The review will also consider limitations on intensive activities, consistent with approaches adopted in recent marine park planning. While the detail will vary across regions, this signals a continued shift towards tighter zoning frameworks that may further constrain access depending on final outcomes.

Timing and Key Milestones

The review process will align with the expiry of current 10-year management plans under the EPBC Act, with a key focus on completing reviews before mid-2028. Importantly:

• The Temperate East Network and Coral Sea Marine Park have been identified as priorities if full sequencing cannot be completed within the timeframe
• Stakeholder engagement, including with peak industry bodies such as AFTA, will occur throughout the review process

This provides a defined window over the next two years where policy settings, zoning arrangements and access provisions will be actively considered and negotiated.

Engagement and Policy Direction

The Government has indicated a strong commitment to consultation, including:

• Ongoing engagement with national and state-based peak bodies
• Consideration of fisheries-related impacts and potential business assistance measures
• Expanded integration of First Nations perspectives, supported by the establishment of a national First Nations Reference Group

While this reflects a structured and consultative process, it also reinforces that decisions affecting access to waterways and fisheries will be shaped during this review period, making active advocacy essential.

Implications for Recreational Fishing

This review represents a pivotal policy moment for recreational fishing in Australia. Key implications include:

• Potential reduction in accessible fishing areas through expansion of no-take zones
• Increased pressure on remaining open areas, with flow-on impacts for participation and experience
• Economic impacts on tackle retailers, tourism operators and regional communities dependent on fishing activity
• The need to ensure that recreational fishing is recognised as a legitimate and sustainable use of marine resources, alongside conservation objectives

At the same time, the review presents an opportunity to advocate for:

• Balanced, evidence-based zoning that protects environmental values while maintaining access
• Recognition of the social, economic and wellbeing benefits of recreational fishing
• Improved planning that considers practical access, participation and regional impacts, not just spatial targets

Advocacy and Transparency in the Marine Policy Debate

While AFTA respects the perspectives and input of all stakeholders participating in the marine environmental debate, it is important to highlight concerns around transparency and resourcing in current advocacy campaigns.

In particular, recent full‑page advertising campaigns appearing across national and state-based newspapers raise legitimate questions regarding funding sources. The scale and cost of such campaigns are substantial—amounting to hundreds of thousands of dollars—and appear beyond the typical financial capacity of many of the listed signatory groups.

This raises an important issue for the sector: who is funding these campaigns, and to what extent are external interests influencing the public narrative and policy direction?

For AFTA, transparency in advocacy is critical. Policy decisions that directly impact recreational fishing access, regional economies and community participation must be informed by clear, evidence-based processes and an open understanding of all contributing influences.

AFTA will continue to advocate for balanced, transparent and accountable engagement processes, ensuring that the voice of the recreational fishing sector is not only heard but properly considered alongside all other interests in this increasingly contested policy space.

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