A re-elected Lawler Labor Government will ban the use of commercial gillnets for Barramundi fishing and buy back commercial Barramundi fishing licences, which will deliver a huge boost to the Territory’s world-class rec fishing industry.
Rec fishing is a fantastic part of the Territory lifestyle and Barra fishing is a key reason why keen fishos make the Territory their home.
Recfishing in the Territory is worth around $144 million – and up to $270 million when indirect contributions such as tour guides and retail purchases are included. The industry supports around 1775 direct jobs and a further 750 jobs indirectly.
The ban on commercial gillnets for Barramundi fishing and buybacks of licences will be phased in over four years. Buying back commercial gillnet licences will reset the Barramundi fishery and allow a more environmentally and economically sustainable commercial fishing industry in the future.
Territorians will still be easily able to enjoy Barra on their plate through the Territory’s expanding aquaculture industry. Farmed Barra produces around 6000 tonnes a year and makes up around 95 per cent of product sold at shops, takeaways and restaurants.
If re-elected, the Lawler Labor Government will start discussions with licence holders and key stakeholders on how to implement this policy and create a fair buyback process in September. There are currently 14 commercial fishing licences in the Territory.
Only a re-elected Lawler Labor Government will protect the Territory lifestyle and make the Territory an even better place for fishos to catch a Barra.
“Territorians love fishing and that’s why we’re protecting the best spots right across the Territory by phasing out the use of commercial gillnets.”
“This is a common sense plan to ensure that our rec fishing industry continue to thrive and deliver big benefits to our economy.”
“We want to give our fishos the best chance of bagging the biggest Barra and that’s why we will work with the commercial sector to ban gillnets for Barramundi fishing and buy back licences.”
“The Territory is the best place in the world to wet a line and this will protect our rec fishing industry for years to come.”
“The rec fishing industry is a huge contributor to the Territory’s economy and we want to continue growing jobs and opportunities in the sector.”