AFTA Chair’s Report – October 2025

SOUTH AUSTRALIA

SA Premier Backs Confidence Campaign for Recreational Fishing with $300,000

In a welcome development for South Australia’s recreational fishing community, Premier The Hon Peter Malinauskas MP has publicly declared his commitment to restoring confidence in the sector, stating, “I’m on board” with AFTA’s campaign efforts. This commitment is supported by a substantial $300,000 investment from the state government, earmarked for a comprehensive campaign across social media, radio, and television, ensuring broad public reach and impact.

The joint initiative between AFTA and the South Australian Government aims to reassure the public that it’s safe to fish & safe to eat what you catch.

Left to Right: The Hon Bob Baldwin (Chair AFTA), South Australian Premier, The Hon Peter Malinauskas MP, Alicia Bolitho (Tackle World Port Lincoln and SA AFTA Director, The Hon Emily Bourke MLC, Minister for Recreation, Sport & Racing.

In September, the AFTA Board held discussions with the Premier and Tourism SA to shape the campaign’s direction, ensuring alignment with ongoing efforts to rebuild trust in recreational fishing.

AFTA extends sincere gratitude to Premier Malinauskas and Minister for Recreation, Sport & Racing, The Hon Emily Bourke MLC, for their unwavering support of the recreational fishing industry and its crucial ties to tourism in South Australia.

Special recognition is also due to Alicia Bolitho, AFTA Director and owner of Tackle World Port Lincoln, whose tireless advocacy and insights from the local industry continue to be invaluable in steering sector priorities.

Recreational fishing remains a cornerstone of South Australia’s economy, generating $984 million and supporting 9,434 full-time equivalent jobs. By comparison, commercial fishing contributes $844 million and sustains 7,389 positions. Both sectors are indispensable, and AFTA strongly recommends equal support for their sustainability, especially in light of the current Algal Bloom crisis affecting local waters.

QUEENSLAND

Queensland Fisheries Reform: A Call for Equity and Transparency

In a pivotal week for Queensland’s recreational fishing community, AFTA Queensland Director Kord Luckus of Wilson Fishing and I, together with the state’s fisheries leadership, began a program of engagement to address pressing reform issues facing the sector.

On 9 October, we met with Pauline Jacobs, the newly appointed Deputy Director of Queensland Fisheries, to discuss significant developments in fisheries management. The agenda included the proposed reallocation of Spanish Mackerel stocks, the latest assessments on snapper populations, and the implications of ongoing crab trap reforms. These topics are central to the future of both recreational and commercial fishing, with far-reaching consequences for local businesses and anglers across the state.

Burnett MP Stephen Bennett and Bob Baldwin

The following day, I represented AFTA at the Queensland Fishing and Seafood Statewide Forum, held at the Queensland State Library. Chaired by Burnett MP Stephen Bennett, AFTA advocated strongly for the recreational fishing sector. While the commercial fishing representatives were in the majority, I emphasised the necessity for greater transparency and fairness within the state’s harvest strategy. Clear and equitable allocation of resources remains a core concern for our industry.

In response to these ongoing challenges, AFTA has released a public statement outlining our persistent concerns. Read the full press release here.

Now, more than ever, AFTA urges all stakeholders – including retailers, wholesalers, and, most importantly, Queensland’s recreational fishers – to make their voices heard. We encourage everyone to engage with their local Queensland MPs to highlight the need for fair and equitable resource allocation ahead of any upcoming parliamentary votes on fisheries reform.

Regarding Spanish Mackerel, AFTA’s position has evolved to support an increase in the recreational bag limit from one to two fish per person. While this is still a reduction from the 2023 limit of three, it strikes a fair balance between sustainability and access for Queensland’s anglers.

To read our submission, click here. AFTA remains committed to championing the interests of recreational fishers and ensuring the long-term health of Queensland’s valuable marine resources.

Expanding Opportunities for Queensland Recreational Fishers

In a significant step forward for Queensland’s recreational fishing sector, I am pleased to report that the State Government is expanding the Stocked Impoundment Permit Scheme (SIPS) to create even more destinations for anglers across the region. The move will see three new dams—Mount Morgan No. 7 Dam, Paradise Dam, and Enoggera Dam—added to the existing roster of 63 impoundments, offering fresh opportunities for Queenslanders to cast a line and enjoy the outdoors.

This expansion, spearheaded by the Crisafulli Government, underlines a firm commitment to maintaining healthy fish populations in our inland waterways. SIPS, which began in 2000 with just 25 dams, has evolved into a cornerstone of the state’s $2.5 billion recreational fishing industry, supporting local economies and promoting community engagement in responsible fishing practices.

Stocking is scheduled for early 2026, with a variety of species set to be introduced. Mount Morgan No. 7 Dam will welcome golden perch, saratoga, and eel-tailed catfish; Paradise Dam is slated for bass and barramundi; and Enoggera Dam will be stocked with bass, alongside a trial introduction of jungle perch. These efforts are designed not only to enhance the angling experience but also to support the long-term sustainability of Queensland’s aquatic resources.

As Chair of AFTA, I commend the government’s initiative and encourage all stakeholders—retailers, wholesalers, and the state’s passionate recreational fishers—to capitalise on these new opportunities. The continued expansion of SIPS demonstrates the positive impact of industry and government collaboration, ensuring that Queensland remains a premier destination for fishing enthusiasts across the nation.

WESTERN AUSTRALIA

WA Fishing Futures Forum Highlights Urgent Demersal Conservation Challenge – Stakeholders urge government to rethink fisheries strategy as stock pressures mount

The Western Australian Government’s Fishing Futures Forum, held on Monday, 20 October, and chaired by Fisheries Minister Jackie Jarvis, brought together industry leaders, government officials, and community representatives to address the ongoing challenge of demersal fish conservation. Opened by the Premier, the Hon. Roger Cook, and hosted by the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD), the forum aimed to chart a sustainable future for Western Australia’s vital demersal fisheries.

AFTA Chair the Hon. Bob Baldwin, WA AFTA Member Ash Ramm, WA AFTA Ambassador Tim Farnell surrounded by government officials and representatives from the commercial sector

Throughout the day, on behalf of the Australian Fishing Trade Association (AFTA), I pressed for a government-led strategy that would maximise the “triple bottom line” – balancing economic, social, and environmental outcomes – for every kilogram of fish harvested. “The time is right to reassess the best value proposition for each region.”

Along with AFTA Ambassadors, Ash Ram (Tackle World Miami) & Tim Farnell (Red Mullet Distributors WA) we argued that only a holistic approach could secure long-term benefits for all stakeholders.

The government reported current sustainability levels for fishing regions. On the West Coast, there are 101,342 boat licences, 40 charter boats, and 25 commercial line boats. Fishing is 57% commercial and 43% recreational, with Demersal Scalefish at severe risk. In the Gascoyne region, commercial activity makes up 61% (Medium Risk); South Coast, 76% (High Risk); Pilbara, 96% (Severe Risk); and Kimberley, 98% (High Risk).

I presented the following short speech: Western Australia – Fishing Futures Forum – The Urgent Demersal Conservation Challenge.

On behalf of the Australian Fishing Trade Association, whose membership represents the manufacturing, wholesale, retail, and charter sectors, as well as fishing media—and by association, the 750,000 recreational fishers across this great state—I thank you for the opportunity to address this forum and highlight a matter of urgent importance: the future of our demersal fisheries.

Today, I urge the government to lead the way in developing a strategy that truly maximises the “triple bottom line”—balancing economic, social, and environmental outcomes for every kilogram of fish harvested in Western Australia.

Like the commercial sector, our members also suffer the financial hardships caused by poor fisheries management. Iconic stores, such as Liza Harvey’s Bluewater Tackle World Myaree—a 90-year-old generational business—have closed, to name just one example.

The time is right to reassess the true value proposition for each species and each region. Only a holistic approach—one that considers the needs and contributions of all stakeholders—will secure long-term benefits for our communities, industries, and marine environment.

Recent reports from both the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation and the WA Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development make it clear: both recreational and commercial fishing sectors are vital to the state.

Recreational fishers alone generate $2.4 billion for Western Australia’s Gross State Product and support 9,380 full-time equivalent jobs. Meanwhile, commercial operations—including fish, lobster, trawl, prawn, and abalone—generate $1.383 billion and employ 9,138 people.

However, it is important to note that line-caught fisheries account for less than 20 percent of the $1.383 billion, highlighting the dominance of other commercial methods.

As evidenced in today’s presentations, the vast majority of commercial line-caught fish are taken outside the west coast region, where commercial operators are responsible for catching more than 90 percent of demersal fish stocks.

Yet, as important as the economic debate is, it has been overshadowed by mounting scientific evidence of stock declines among several key demersal species. Recent assessments show that pink snapper, red emperor, and Western Australian dhufish are under increasing pressure from ongoing fishing. Other species at high risk include the Kimberley red emperor, Pilbara goldband snapper, South Coast pink snapper, bight redfish, and Western blue groper.

The recreational fishing population resides predominantly in the West Coast region, raising important questions about equitable resource allocation and regional priorities, particularly in the West Coast region.

We at AFTA urge the government to carefully consider these figures as it shapes future policy.

Stakeholders across the board agree: urgent action is needed to ensure the long-term viability of these fisheries, based on the triple bottom line and a true value proposition.

It is time to end the blame game. It is incumbent on all of us—government, industry, and community—to work together to secure a sustainable future for Western Australia’s fisheries, for the benefit of all.

For the latest updates on demersal research, stock assessments, and recreational fishing surveys, or to share your views, visit: www.dpird.wa.gov.au/demersal-scalefish-resources

VICTORIA

Victoria Launches Second Phase of Little Angler Kits to Inspire Young Fishers

Free Fishing Gear Initiative Expands to Nearly 1,900 Schools in 2026

In a major push to encourage youth participation in recreational fishing, Victoria’s Minister for Outdoor Recreation, Steve Dimopoulos, has announced the rollout of a second phase of the Little Angler Kits program. Next year, 82,500 kits are set to be distributed to primary school children at nearly 1,900 schools across the state, timed to coincide with the September 2026 school holidays.

The initiative, funded by the Recreational Fishing Licence Trust Fund, will provide free Little Angler Kits to students, continuing the program’s goal of broadening access to fishing for young Victorians. In its inaugural run in 2023, the program offered Grade 5 students at government, catholic, independent, language, and specialist schools throughout metropolitan and regional areas the chance to receive their own kit. The aim: to ensure every child in Victoria can experience the joys of fishing, regardless of background or location.

Each kit comes equipped with a fishing rod and reel, pre-spooled with line, a tackle box containing essential tackle, and an eight-page Kids’ Guide to Fishing. The guide covers the basics of fishing safety, knots, and rigs, while also offering tips on bait selection, peak fishing seasons, and prime locations across Victoria. Colour illustrations help children identify freshwater and saltwater species likely to be found in local waters.

The Victorian Fisheries Authority (VFA) is spearheading the delivery of the kits. To further support budding anglers, the VFA has produced a series of tutorial videos hosted by Ambassador Lee Rayner and Michelle Brittain, a representative of the Women in Recreational Fishing and Boating Network. These videos provide step-by-step instructions designed to help first-time fishers get started, making the program accessible and engaging for everyone.

Stronger Fishing Clubs Grant Program

Minister for Outdoor Recreation Steve Dimopoulos has announced applications for the Stronger Fishing Clubs Grant Program are open until Sunday, 30 November for the 2025/26 round, encouraging clubs to apply for their share in up to $600,000. The funding can be used in a variety of ways, from clubroom and facility improvements to providing fishing tuition for multicultural groups, women, and First Nations people, as well as hosting open days, training, events, and guest speaker nights to share skills and attract new members.

In the most recent round, 32 clubs and associations netted grants of up to $10,000, made possible through the $96 million Go Fishing and Boating Victoria plan.

This grant program is just one of the ways the Victorian Government provides a supportive environment for newcomers to fish and embrace it as a hobby.

To learn more and to apply, visit vfa.vic.gov.au/strongerfishingclubs

NEW SOUTH WALES

On 15 October, I met with Tara Black, the newly appointed Deputy Secretary of NSW Fisheries, to discuss the pressing challenges and the emerging opportunities for recreational fishers throughout New South Wales.

Among the issues tabled was the recent prohibition on Blue Grouper, as well as ongoing work regarding the Mulloway harvest strategy. Both matters remain at the forefront of concern for fishers, with the sector looking for a balanced approach that supports sustainability while maintaining angling opportunities.

Education and youth engagement were also under the spotlight, with progress reviewed on the AFTA/Marine Teachers’ “Let’s Go Fishing” school-based program. This initiative aims to inspire the next generation of anglers and promote the long-term health of recreational fishing by instilling knowledge and responsible practices from an early age.

Species diversity and hatchery expansion featured prominently in discussions. There is broad agreement that NSW’s inland fishing options warrant greater visibility, with the expansion of hatchery capacity—especially for sought-after species—seen as vital for strengthening stocks and guaranteeing sustainable fishing into the future.

Estuary and river netting was a focal point, with AFTA drawing attention to Victoria’s successful buyback and removal of commercial netting licences. I highlighted how this Victorian model has delivered tangible improvements for fish populations and local communities, presenting a compelling case for similar reforms in New South Wales, noting that any license buyback must be on fair & just terms.
Attention was also directed towards the allocation and expenditure of the Recreational Fishing Trust Funds. There was an emphasis on the need to ensure accessibility and opportunity for all, calling for investment in disabled access, modern facilities, additional jetties, and more boat ramps to meet the growing demand from recreational fishers. “After all, it’s their money,”.

Looking ahead, the upcoming assessment review program for the Port Stephens – Great Lakes Marine Park was discussed. I urge all recreational fishers and stakeholders to engage actively in the forthcoming public consultation process. “It’s crucial that our voices are heard as future policy is shaped.”

In closing, the establishment of the NSW Recreational Fishing Peak Body is nearing completion. This new entity promises to unite the state’s recreational fishing community under a single, effective advocacy platform, strengthening representation and securing a vibrant, sustainable future for all involved in the sector.

NORTHERN TERRITORY

Million Dollar Fish Season 11 Delivers Big Incentives for Territory Anglers

The launch of Million Dollar Fish Season 11 has injected renewed excitement into recreational fishing across the Northern Territory. With one hundred red-tagged barramundi, each carrying a $10,000 prize, released into popular fishing spots, locals and visitors alike are encouraged to get outdoors and support the Territory’s vibrant tourism sector. The competition offers participants multiple opportunities to win, including a life-changing million-dollar catch.

Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries, Gerard Maley, said Million Dollar Fish is more than a fishing competition – it boosts tourism, supports local jobs, and showcases the Territory as a must-visit destination and the Northern Territory is the only place in Australia where you can cast a line and catch a million-dollar fish.”

Registered participants are eligible for monthly prizes, including flight vouchers, fishing gear, and luxury getaways. This season introduces the Reel of Fortune, featuring bonus cash offers such as $30,000 for the biggest $10,000 barra and a $15,000 bonus for first-time winners. Million Dollar Fish Season 11 runs from 1 October 2025 to 31 March 2026, with free registration now open. For more information and to sign up, please visit the official website.

FEDERAL

Marine Park Expansion Sparks Uncertainty for Australia’s Recreational Fishers

Federal Moves to Protect Biodiversity Trigger Debate Over Fishing Access and Economic Impact

Australia’s fishing sector is facing growing uncertainty as the federal government pushes forward with the expansion of marine park protections. Recent policy reviews and the introduction of new sanctuary zones have triggered widespread concern among anglers, raising challenging questions about the future of recreational fishing in the country.

Federal Policy Shifts Prompt Anxiety
Federal initiatives aimed at increasing conservation areas, particularly through the establishment of new sanctuary zones and ambitious marine park targets, have positioned both commercial and recreational fishers at the centre of an increasingly heated national debate. While the measures are designed to preserve marine biodiversity and meet international conservation goals, many in the fishing community are worried about the loss of access to traditional fishing grounds and the broader future of their pastime.

Historical Context: Decades of Change
Australian Marine Parks undergo reviews every decade, often resulting in sweeping changes that alter established fishing practices. The South-east Marine Parks Network, created in 2007 and expanded in 2012, set aside vast stretches of ocean for ecological protection. Environmental groups celebrated these moves, but recreational fishers lost access to many cherished locations, forcing them to adapt or travel further for their sport.

Management plans were suspended in 2013, providing fishers with a temporary reprieve from further restrictions. However, a major review between 2014 and 2016 led to a partial rollback of no-take zones, offering only limited relief. Advocacy from environmental organisations continued to drive calls for stricter protections, creating an ongoing tug-of-war between conservation and fishing interests.

2025 Review: New Sanctuary Zones and Expanded Protections
The situation intensified in 2025 with a significant review of the South-east Marine Parks Network. The latest plan introduced 11 new sanctuary zones and comprehensive bans on oil and gas activities across more than 80,000 square kilometres. The network now covers 3.8 million square kilometres, representing 43% of Australia’s waters. Industry groups have responded with alarm, warning that shrinking access to fishing grounds threatens both community wellbeing and the economic fabric of coastal towns.

Impact on Recreational Anglers and Local Businesses
For Australia’s recreational fishers, the expansion of sanctuary zones means losing access to popular and productive fishing spots. Many worry that these closures will diminish family traditions and personal enjoyment, while also impacting local businesses such as bait shops, charter operators, and tourism ventures. The long-term viability of fishing clubs and competitions—cornerstones of Australian recreational fishing culture—is also at risk.

With further reviews scheduled for the North, North-west, South-west, Temperate East, and Coral Sea networks between 2027 and 2028, uncertainty continues to hang over the sector. The federal government’s commitment to the global “30 by 30” target—protecting at least 30% of Australia’s Exclusive Economic Zone by 2030—has left recreational fishers bracing for more restrictions and a future where their pastime may be increasingly confined.

Calls for Balanced Consultation
As policymakers weigh the demands of conservation against the economic realities faced by coastal communities, recreational fishers are calling for fair and meaningful consultation. Many believe their local knowledge and stewardship can help achieve sustainable management of marine resources. A balanced approach, they argue, is crucial to ensuring both healthy aquatic ecosystems and vibrant fishing communities.

The outcome of the next round of reviews will prove critical—not just for marine biodiversity, but for the future of recreational fishing as a cherished Australian tradition.

Timeline: Evolution of Commonwealth Marine Parks

1998: The Howard Government introduces Australia’s Oceans Policy, beginning systematic marine protection efforts.

2007: South-east Marine Parks Network established with 14 reserves in Commonwealth waters off southeastern Australia.

2012: Labor Government expands the network to 60 reserves, covering over 3.1 million square kilometres, including key areas like the Coral Sea.

2013: Coalition Government suspends 2012 management plans, promising to balance environmental and economic interests.

2014–2016: A formal review recommends significant changes to zoning and protections, including reducing no-take zones in many parks.

2017: Commonwealth Marine Reserves renamed as “Australian Marine Parks.”

2018: New management plans come into effect, cutting back sanctuary zones in several key regions.

2022–2024: Review of the South-east Network leads to the expansion of marine sanctuaries and new bans on offshore oil and gas exploration.

2025: New management plan increases protections, with the network now covering 60 parks and 3.8 million square kilometres (43% of Australian waters).

Overall, the extent of marine protection has fluctuated with changes in government policy—expanding under Labor, contracting under the Coalition, and now expanding once more under the current Labor leadership to meet international conservation targets. The next chapter will be shaped by the outcome of ongoing reviews and the strength of community voices in the consultation process.

Election Calendar

New South Wales

March 13, 2027

Queensland

October 28, 2028