Amidst ongoing political manoeuvres by the Liberal and National opposition in Western Australia, the Australian Fishing Trade Association (AFTA) has sought clarification regarding the coalition’s position on reopening the West Coast bio region to commercial fishing. This query comes in light of the government’s acquisition of the remaining 41 commercial demersal fishing licences in the area and the current plan to designate the region exclusively for recreational fishing.
AFTA has emphasised the long-term benefits of maintaining the West Coast region for recreational fishing only, noting that the shift supports the continued growth of recreational fishing activities. The West Coast region, spanning approximately 900 kilometres from Augusta to Kalbarri, will be the only area along Western Australia’s nearly 13,000-kilometre coastline to be permanently closed to commercial demersal fishing. The transition is scheduled for spring 2026, when the region will officially reopen as an exclusive recreational fishing zone.
Approximately 90 percent of Western Australia’s recreational fishers reside in the West Coast region, which includes major centres such as Perth, Fremantle, Rockingham, Mandurah, Bunbury, Busselton, Margaret River and Geraldton. These fishers contribute over $2 billion annually to the state’s Gross State Product, signalling a positive outcome for the community and the broader economy.
Western Australia comprises five key fishing regions: the Southern Region, West Coast Region, Gascoyne Region, Pilbara Region, and Kimberley Region. While the West Coast region is the only area affected by permanent demersal fishing closures, commercial and recreational fishing remain available in the other regions.
Although AFTA has expressed reservations about the demersal closures, the association acknowledges the potential advantages, including opportunities to target other species. Importantly, the changes do not impact shore-based line fishers, ensuring continued access for a broad spectrum of recreational fishing enthusiasts.