AFTA welcomes the announcement of a state peak body for NSW. We have been advocating for its introduction for some time.
The Minns Labor Government has today announced a significant milestone in recreational fishing by releasing the draft Enhancing Recreational Fishing in NSW Action Plan 2026-2031 for consultation and opening Expressions of Interest for the board of a new independent recreational fishing peak body.
Together, the draft Action Plan and the establishment of the peak body will lay the foundation for a vibrant and representative recreational fishing sector in NSW.
The Minns Government is committed to giving the wide and varied group of recreational fishers a voice in government, healthier waterways, and more opportunities to enjoy the state’s salt and freshwater landscapes and fishing opportunities.
The draft Enhancing Recreational Fishing in NSW Action Plan 2026-2031 aims to deliver greater participation in fishing, promote environmental stewardship of our waterways, promote the benefits of fishing to wellbeing and social lifestyles, and fast-track the recovery of depleted species.
Recreational fishing is seeing a rise in interest among young people, as demonstrated by the significant social media content about the activity and the engagement with the plan and the EOI aims to attract the next generation of fishers.
The Government invites feedback and consultation with people across the state to consider the Plan. Some highlights include:
• Boost participation of women and kids, and people with disabilities by 10 per cent, with more fishing workshops, promotion, accessible fishing platforms and facilities.
• Make “Gone Fishing Day” a bigger and better event across NSW to celebrate fishing, our iconic coastal and inland locations, and our seafood through deeper and wider partnerships.
• Stock 30 million fish into NSW waterways with improved hatchery infrastructure and focus on sportfish like Mulloway and Dusky Flathead, and iconic natives like Murray Cod.
• Create 50 new fishing sites in regional and metropolitan areas to provide more places for people to fish by improving access, infrastructure and habitat.
• Boost sustainable fishing through responsible practices, reducing wildlife impacts and waste, and empower fishers to be citizen stewards of fisheries and aquatic environments.
Public consultation on the draft action plan is now open and will close on 24 April 2026, giving people the opportunity to provide feedback and contribute to the final plan.
To view the draft Enhancing Recreational Fishing in NSW Action Plan 2026-2031 and provide feedback, head to: https://www.haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au/rec-fishing-ap
The Government is also opening Expressions of Interest for the board of a new independent recreational fishing peak body comprising of a chair and up to nine other board members, made up of dedicated recreational fishers, professionals and talented individuals.
People with a broad knowledge of recreational fishing and a range of experiences and skills, including effective leadership, communication and innovation, can submit their EOI via fisheries.info@dpird.nsw.gov.au by 30 March 2026.
For more information, including how to submit your expression of interest, please visit: https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fishing/recreational/resources/proposed-recreational-fishing-peak-body
“The Minns Government is committed to making fishing an inclusive, enjoyable and sustainable activity for everyone in NSW who wants to participate – whether you are throwing a line for the first time or devoting all your weekends to the pursuit.
“Providing feedback to the draft Enhancing Recreational Fishing in NSW Action Plan 2026-2031 will be important for making sure we get this right and make this plan work for all types of fishers, and those people who care about our native fish and wonderful coastline and streams.
“Recreational fishing continues to make a significant contribution to the NSW economy, supporting over 14,000 full-time jobs and generating billions in economic activity annually across our regional and coastal communities.
“This action plan demonstrates a strong commitment to both our inland waterway communities and our coastal communities. Our Government is ensuring the social, cultural and economic benefits of recreational fishing flow across the state and where they’re needed.
“I call upon talented people from anywhere across our state to consider contributing to the new peak body for recreational fishing. If you feel qualified to participate and would enjoy helping in this fascinating sector, please apply soon.
“This peak body will work closely with the NSW Government to recommend the best ways forward to sustainably manage recreational fishing and broaden its participation.”
“NSW is renowned for having some of the best fishing locations in the country and recreational fishing is enjoyed by one million anglers every year.
“The Government is committed to making recreational fishing in both salt and freshwater environments better, more accessible, and more fun for everyone.”
“The Enhancing Recreational Fishing in NSW Action Plan 2026-2031 will help ensure more people have access and the ability to engage in fishing and experience the joy of this rewarding activity.”
“The board of the new recreational fishing peak body will need to comprise a diverse range of skills and expertise to ensure that the body hits the ground running.
“Members will be responsible for setting up the organisation for success, including appointing an executive officer to undertake the day-to-day running of the organisation.”
“This peak body has been designed to ensure an inclusive and collaborative organisation to help advance the priorities and needs of NSW’s recreational fishers.”