- Golden Snapper stocks in the Greater Darwin Region have fallen to critically low levels.
- The Finocchiaro CLP Government is calling on Territorians to have their say on future management of Golden Snapper, with public consultation open from 27 March to 26 April 2026.
- Community input will help shape practical actions to rebuild stocks and protect Territory fishing for future generations.
The Finocchiaro CLP Government is calling on Territorians to have their say on the future of one of the NT’s most iconic reef species, with Golden Snapper stocks in the Greater Darwin Region now at critically low levels.
Golden Snapper is central to the Territory lifestyle, supporting recreational fishers, tourism, cultural fishing, commercial operators and the wider economy.
Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries Gerard Maley said the latest stock assessment confirms Golden Snapper numbers in the Greater Darwin Region have fallen to critically low levels.
“Territorians know better than anyone that fishing here is world class.”
“To keep it that way, we need smart decisions today so our kids and grandkids can enjoy the same experience tomorrow,” said Mr Maley.
“We are seeing smaller fish and fewer catches, which is why we’re asking every fisho to have their say and help us rebuild this iconic species.”
Public consultation, including a Have Your Say survey, will run from today to 26 April 2026, giving the community a direct opportunity to help shape recovery actions.
“This consultation isn’t about presenting a draft recovery plan just yet – it’s about understanding what the community knows, what they value, and the level of support for management options to rebuild Golden Snapper stocks,” Mr Maley said.
Ongoing high fishing pressure, combined with the species’ biological vulnerability and high susceptibility to barotrauma, has prevented stock recovery.
NT Fisheries is investing in recovery programs to rebuild stocks and create new fishing opportunities, including a four-year Golden Snapper stocking program, installation of new artificial fish habitats, and deployment of fish aggregating devices (FADs).
Chief Executive of the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, Amelia Vellar, said this consultation is a chance for every fisher to play a role.
“Our science shows Golden Snapper stocks are now at 14 per cent of unfished levels, that is critically low. Without intervention, this species is at real risk of long-term depletion,” she said.
“We’re already investing in major recovery initiatives, including a four-year stocking program, new fish habitats, and more FADs to provide alternative fishing opportunities.
“Territorians are passionate about their fishing, and we want them to help shape the future of Golden Snapper. This consultation is a chance for every fisher to play a role.”
Amateur Fishing Association NT (AFANT) Chief Executive David Ciaravolo said strong community input will help ensure any future recovery plan is practical, fair and focused on rebuilding a sustainable fishery for everyone.
“We’re encouraging all members and every Territorian who loves to fish to take a few minutes to complete the survey and have their say.”
To help shape how we look after Golden Snapper for future generations, have your say at haveyoursay.nt.gov.au/golden-snapper-recovery-for-the-greater-darwin-region.