AFTA Chair’s Report – September 2026

Message from the Chair

What a month it has been. In the space of four weeks, our industry celebrated an outstanding AFTA Tackle Show and was then called on to respond to some of the most significant fisheries management and access issues we have faced in years.

Our first show at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre, held from 20 to 22 August, exceeded expectations. Public Day attracted more than 14,000 registrations and more than 6,000 attendees, compared with 4,242 attendees at last year’s Public Day on the Gold Coast. Children were queuing from 2.30am, families and young anglers filled the venue, and exhibitors described it as the best Public Day they had seen.

This is the participation story our industry has long taken to governments. Recreational fishing is not a marginal activity. It supports businesses, jobs, tourism, family participation and regional communities across Australia.

I thank Minister Tony Perrett and the Queensland Government, whose $40,000 sponsorship helped keep Public Day free. I also thank our sponsors, exhibitors and retailers, including those supported through the Board’s hardship grant, and especially Heatha Nicholas, Nicholle Smith and Steve Morgan for delivering an event of this scale in a new venue.

It was a privilege to present the 2026 Industry Recognition Award to Alicia Bolitho, in the presence of South Australian Minister Clare Scriven, recognising Alicia’s leadership during the South Australian algal bloom. We were also honoured to welcome Glenn Hughes, President and CEO of the American Sportfishing Association, reflecting the growing strength of the relationship between our organisations, a relationship we will build on.

L-R: Hon. Tony Perrett, Hon. Clare Scriven, Hon. Bob Baldwin

The move to the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre delivered more than 14,000 Public Day registrations and more than 6,000 attendees. Queensland Government $40k support helped keep Public Day free and broaden participation. AFTA appreciated The Hon Tony Perrett officially opening the Public Day and will work to build on the Brisbane partnership for the 2027 show.

L-R: Glenn Hughes – American Sportfishing Association, Hon. Bob Baldwin, Carey Graves – American Sportfishing Association

The weeks since Brisbane have shown why AFTA exists. Commonwealth Marine Parks, NSW snapper and yellowtail kingfish, NSW redfish, Cockburn Sound and the Victorian election have all required an immediate and substantive response. AFTA has answered each challenge with evidence, detailed submissions and direct engagement.

AFTA supports rebuilding fish stocks and marine conservation. What we ask is that decisions affecting millions of Australians are founded on evidence that can be examined, that the burden is shared fairly, and that the people and businesses affected are genuinely part of the solution. When governments allocate harvest shares, they must apply the triple bottom line and ask where each kilogram of available harvest delivers the greatest environmental, economic and social value.

Members have provided local knowledge, commercial evidence and technical expertise throughout the month. Thank you. Numbers matter, participation matters and our collective voice matters.

​Commonwealth Marine Parks Review: AFTA’s Major Submission

AFTA has completed its submission on the review of the 2018 management plans for 44 Australian Marine Parks across the Coral Sea and the Temperate East, North, North-west and South-west networks. The submission is supported by the Boating Industry Association and contains 58 recommendations supported by 43 sources.

The submission acknowledges the Department’s detailed response to AFTA’s 52 questions. It records useful commitments, including that recreational line fishing and authorised charter fishing would not generally be treated as intensive activities, that proposed zoning changes will be accompanied by published explanations, and that a regulatory impact analysis will be required.

AFTA’s central position remains that the proposed Norfolk and Lord Howe expansions would, on the figures provided, exceed the national high-protection requirement. Any further conversion to no-take zoning must therefore be justified on the ecological merits of the particular area, supported by transparent evidence, cumulative-impact analysis and proper consideration of displacement, safety and effects on fishing-dependent businesses.  It must not be just lines on a map without substance to appease those with ideological opposition to recreational fishing!

Members and contributors provided detailed local knowledge, particularly for areas close to population centres, boat ramps, charter operations and established pelagic, game and demersal fisheries. That evidence materially strengthened the final submission.

Further information: AFTA marine parks review submission | AFTA submission Lord Howe, Gifford & Norfolk Proclamation | AFTA request for clarification | Ministerial response and AFTA update

Norfolk, Lord Howe and Gifford

On 14 September, AFTA lodged a separate submission supporting the proposed proclamation and expansion of the Norfolk and Lord Howe marine parks and the incorporation of Gifford. That support is subject to evidence-based internal zoning, sustainable recreational and charter access where compatible with conservation objectives, direct engagement with island communities, proportionate management at Gifford and properly designed scientific benchmark areas. Read the submission here: https://afta.net.au/commonwealth-marine-parks-review-30×30-afta-submissions/

Our Marine Parks Grants Round 5

The Commonwealth’s Our Marine Parks Grants Round Five offers $5.6 million to strengthen the capacity of marine park users to participate in management, collaborative biodiversity protection, ecosystem health and culturally informed stewardship. Applications close on 27 October 2026. AFTA attended the 1 September information seminar and will consider opportunities consistent with member priorities.

QUEENSLAND

Hon. Bob Baldwin thanks Hon. Tony Perrett for his opening address at the 2026 AFTA Tackle Show

A Record Brisbane Show

The move to the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre delivered more than 14,000 Public Day registrations and more than 6,000 attendees. Queensland Government $40k support helped keep Public Day free and broaden participation. AFTA appreciated The Hon Tony Perret officially opening the Public Day and will work to build on the Brisbane partnership for the 2027 show.

$2.4 Million Shark Research Program

Fisheries Queensland has commenced a $2.4 million research program examining the effects of Queensland’s Shark Control Program on key species, including bull and tiger sharks. The project forms part of the Queensland Shark Management Plan 2025–2029.

The first stage, due for completion in February 2027, will examine shark biology, population pressures and DNA. A second stage, scheduled for completion in 2028, will examine bull and pigeye shark stock structure and include tagging and tracking along Queensland’s east coast.

AFTA welcomes investment in robust fisheries research that provides governments with better evidence to support future management decisions.

Read the AFTA update​

NEW SOUTH WALES

​Snapper and Yellowtail Kingfish: Consultation Extended

The NSW Government released draft harvest strategies for snapper and yellowtail kingfish on 1 September. The proposals include major reductions in recreational access, including a proposed kingfish bag and boat limit of one, and a proposed snapper bag limit of three with only one fish over 70 centimetres.

AFTA submitted 148 questions on our concerns with the approach and the science.

AFTA met senior NSW officials on 10 September and sought more time, fuller publication of the science and detailed briefings on the assessment methods and management options. https://afta.net.au/afta-meets-with-nsw-dpi-on-snapper-and-kingfish-proposals/

A partial response to our questions has been made: https://afta.net.au/consultation-on-the-draft-nsw-snapper-and-yellowtail-kingfish-harvest-strategies-2/

On 24 September, the Government extended consultation from October 18 2026 to 15 February 2027. The extension is welcome and gives fishers, charter operators and businesses a more realistic opportunity to examine the evidence and explain the practical consequences.

AFTA is not opposed to rebuilding fish stocks. We do insist that restrictions of this scale be supported by transparent, testable evidence and a fair allocation process. That includes the triple bottom line and the value generated by each kilogram of available harvest.

Have your say: Draft snapper harvest strategy | Draft yellowtail kingfish harvest strategy |

Redfish Rebuilding Program

NSW has finalised a rebuilding program for redfish, also known as nannygai. New arrangements are scheduled to commence on 7 October 2026, including a 25 centimetre minimum size and a reduction of the recreational and charter bag limit to one fish per person. The Commonwealth is scheduled to decide on 31 October 2026 whether redfish should be listed under national environmental legislation.

AFTA supports rebuilding depleted stocks, but consultation must be meaningful and occur before decisions are settled.  We will continue seeking clear information on allocation, monitoring, review and the consequences for businesses and fishing participation.

Further information: AFTA redfish update | NSW rebuilding-program consultation

Recreational Fishing Trust Grants and Representation

The NSW Government announced nearly $390,000 for 18 fishing-facility and education projects and opened the 2026 Recreational Fishing Trust grant round, closing 9 October 2026. The Government also announced reforms targeting unauthorised online fishing-licence sellers and new representative and advisory arrangements.

Further information: NSW recreational fishing announcements | Apply for Recreational Fishing Trust funding

NSW Election Manifesto Under Development

AFTA has circulated the first draft of its NSW Election Manifesto for member and expert input. Comments are requested by 8 October 2026. The final manifesto is scheduled for Board approval by 30 October and distribution to political parties on 1 November, ahead of the NSW election on 13 March 2027.   Now is the time to have your say, please email your thoughts and ideas to : bobbaldwin@afta.net.au

VICTORIA

AFTA’s 2026 Victorian Election Manifesto

On 15 September, AFTA released its non-partisan Victorian Election Manifesto and wrote to political parties and candidates seeking their position on twelve recreational fishing commitments. The manifesto recognises Victoria’s achievements while asking the next Parliament to protect and build on them.

Four funded commitments total $25.2 million over the parliamentary term: Stage 1 of a Victorian Marine and Estuarine Hatchery, reliability upgrades at Snobs Creek Trout Hatchery, a renewed statewide schools fishing education program and a Fishing and Aquatic Studies elective for Years 10 to 12. The remaining commitments focus on policy, capability, access, compliance, waterway management, infrastructure and consultation.

AFTA has asked for responses by 30 October 2026 and will publish responses without editorialising so members and Victorian fishers can make their own assessment before polling day on 28 November 2026.

AFTA will also publish an analysis on all policies put forward by parties for your consideration.

Please share the Victorian Election Manifesto to every recreational fisher.

Mulloway Improvement Program

AFTA has lodged its submission to the Victorian Fisheries Authority on the proposed Mulloway Improvement Program, supporting the overall package while recommending several important refinements.

After consulting with members, AFTA supported reducing the recreational bag limit from five to two fish per person per day and increasing the minimum legal size from 60 cm to 70 cm. AFTA do not support introducing a boat limit, closed season or maximum size limit at this stage, arguing that the proposed bag and size changes should first be implemented and monitored.

Importantly, AFTA strongly supports restarting the angler tagging program and the proposed stocking trial. We have also recommended adding an angler-supported otolith donation and ageing program and bringing forward the stocking program to improve both the science and recreational fishing outcomes.

AFTA welcomes the VFA’s approach of combining sensible regulation with investment in science, tagging and stock enhancement. This is the type of fisheries-management model we would like to see applied more broadly across Australia.

Read AFTA’s full Mulloway Improvement Program submission

WESTERN AUSTRALIA

Protecting Cockburn Sound

On 7 September, AFTA, supported by the Boating Industry Association, lodged a formal submission to the Western Australian Government’s review of the State Environmental (Cockburn Sound) Policy 2015.

With Westport requiring a major, multi-year dredging program, AFTA’s concern extends beyond the seabed directly removed. Sediment plumes and deposition can affect seagrass, benthic habitat, food webs, nursery habitat and the ecological processes supporting Cockburn Sound’s fisheries.

The submission proposes a practical pathway: Avoid, Mitigate, Restore, Replicate, Expand, Monitor and Adapt. Monitoring must have consequences, including the ability to reduce, relocate or pause dredging when ecological thresholds are exceeded. A working port and a healthier Cockburn Sound are not mutually exclusive.

Further information: Read AFTA and BIA’s Cockburn Sound submission

Tackle Rebate

WA boat fishing licence holders can claim the $50 tackle rebate at participating independent tackle stores until 17 November 2026. Retailers should continue promoting the rebate while the West Coast demersal boat fishery remains closed until spring 2027.  AFTA remains disappointed that ALL fishing retailers were not included in the program. https://afta.net.au/afta-seeks-clarification-on-was-recreational-fishing-voucher-tackle-shop-rebate-program/

SOUTH AUSTRALIA

Measuring Participation Through the Algal Bloom

The South Australian Government has commenced a 2026–27 assessment of recreational fishing participation ahead of the next full statewide survey. The work will examine whether the algal bloom and associated management arrangements have changed participation and fishing behaviour. Household telephone surveying commenced in September, with results expected in early 2027.

Good data is essential to understanding the true social and economic impact of the bloom and closures. Fishers not contacted through the survey can continue voluntarily recording trips through the SA Fishing app.

Further information: AFTA participation assessment update

Industry Recognition

It was a privilege to present the 2026 Industry Recognition Award to Alicia Bolitho in the presence of Minister Clare Scriven. Alicia’s leadership during the algal bloom reflects the resilience of South Australian retailers and the importance of strong local advocacy.  To read why Alicia is clearly a worthy recipient click here.

TASMANIA

Sand Flathead Recovery

Tasmania’s sand flathead fishery remains the key recreational fishing issue, with the south-east closure continuing alongside tighter statewide rules. On 17 September, the Government announced its $1.2 million flathead breeding and stock enhancement program had commenced, with broodstock delivered to IMAS. [fishing.tas.gov.au]

AFTA supports rebuilding depleted stocks, but management decisions must be transparent, evidence-based and developed through genuine consultation, with proper consideration of their social and economic impacts. AFTA will continue monitoring the recovery program and the evidence supporting future management and access decisions.

Read the Government’s flathead update

Seasonal Closures and Access

Several recreational closures are currently in effect. Striped trumpeter is closed statewide from 1 September to 31 October, northern squid and calamari waters are also closed during this period, and the Western Region male rock lobster season closed on 1 September. [fishing.tas.gov.au]

NORTHERN TERRITORY

New $1.6 Million Artificial Reef for Darwin to boost Territory fish habitat

Artificial Reef Deployment in the NT

The NT Government has awarded a $1.6 million contract to HCS Constructions NT Pty Ltd, supported by In-Depth Innovations, to construct and deploy a new artificial reef within the Charles Point Wide Reef Fish Protection Area.

Scheduled for deployment in late 2026, the reef will comprise 55 large modules designed to increase reef complexity and productivity and provide additional habitat for reef fish. Fisheries researchers will monitor its performance and assess artificial reefs as a fisheries-enhancement tool.

The project forms part of broader Northern Territory investment in rebuilding and enhancing fish stocks, alongside development of a recovery plan for golden snapper.

AFTA welcomes investment that improves fish habitat, supports sustainable fisheries and creates better long-term recreational fishing opportunities.

Barramundi Fishery Reform

The NT Government is progressing major reform of the Northern Territory barramundi fishery, with a Barramundi Fishery Adjustment Committee established to oversee the buy-back of commercial barramundi licences.

Consultation with affected licence holders is underway, ahead of the Government’s commitment to phase out gillnets from the commercial barramundi fishery following the 2027 season.

Following the buy-back, the reform will move to development of a new management framework covering future objectives, access arrangements and management settings, with alternative commercial fishing gear also being trialled.

AFTA welcomes reforms that recognise the long-term community value of iconic recreational fisheries such as barramundi. The next management framework should ensure the resource delivers strong environmental, economic and social outcomes for Territorians, including recreational fishing, tourism and fishing-dependent businesses.

Read the AFTA update

NATIONAL INDUSTRY & PARTNERSHIPS

Gone Fishing Day will be held nationally on Sunday 18 October 2026. Members are encouraged to support local clubs, schools and community organisations and use the day to introduce new participants to fishing.

NSW has taken it one step further by having a “Gone Fishing Weekend”: on the 17th & 18th with a full program of events.

Further information: ARFF

Fisheries Ministers Meeting

Commonwealth, state and territory fisheries ministers met on 4 September. Ministers discussed climate-driven change, national fisheries priorities, aquaculture strategy, white shark research, long-spined sea urchin impacts and progress on carp-virus research. They also recognised Victoria’s fish-stocking work and its increased capacity to breed native fish for recreational and conservation purposes.

Further information: Fisheries Ministers Meeting communiqué

What AFTA Members Can Do

• Make submissions on the Commonwealth marine parks review and NSW harvest strategies.
• Send AFTA specific business evidence, including effects on sales, bookings, employment and customer participation.
• Provide local knowledge of important fishing areas, methods, access points and displacement or safety risks.
• Promote the WA tackle rebate, Gone Fishing Day and relevant participation surveys to customers.
• Continue contributing ideas and evidence to the NSW Election Manifesto.

Closing Message

On behalf of the Board, thank you to every member, contributor and partner who has shared expertise, local knowledge and practical evidence this month. AFTA’s influence depends on the quality of the case we put forward and the breadth of the industry standing behind it. Together, we will continue protecting fishing’s future and building a sustainable, prosperous and accessible recreational fishing sector.

The Hon. Bob Baldwin
AFTA Chair

ELECTION CALENDAR