The long-term impacts of harmful algal blooms and associated species closures continue to place sustained pressure on the recreational fishing sector. These impacts extend well beyond individual participants, affecting the broader supply chain including tackle retailers, manufacturers, tourism operators and regional communities that rely on fishing activity for economic stability.
AFTA acknowledges and appreciates the South Australian Government’s support through the $300,000 Let’s Fish SA awareness campaign and the $200,000 Junior Tacklebox Program. Both initiatives have delivered strong outcomes, as evidenced in KPI reporting to Government, successfully re-engaging participants and supporting industry activity during a challenging period.
However, with ongoing species closures and continued environmental uncertainty, there remains a clear need for sustained support. Without continuation of these programs, the recovery momentum achieved to date is at risk, and the broader industry will continue to experience economic and participation impacts.
In response to members concerns, AFTA has written to the Hon. Peter Malinauskas MP, Premier of South Australia, and the Hon. Clare Scriven MLC, Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development, seeking a further $300,000 investment to extend the program. This funding will support continued engagement, drive participation, and help maintain stability across the recreational fishing sector and its associated industries.
AFTA will continue to advocate strongly for targeted, evidence-based support measures to ensure the long-term sustainability and resilience of the sector in the face of ongoing environmental challenges.
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Hon Peter Malinauskas MP, Premier of South Australia & Hon Claire Scriven, Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development
Dear Premier & Minister,
Following on from discussions between myself, SA AFTA Director Alicia Bolitho, and your Senior Adviser, I write to formally request a second round of funding to continue the successful “Let’s Fish SA” program.
Firstly, I would like to sincerely thank you for your personal support in providing the $300,000 Let’s Fish SA grant, along with the $200,000 Junior Tackle Box program. Both initiatives have made a very real difference to participation, local businesses and regional communities.
This next phase is intended to support the sector through the current operating environment, including the scalefish closures introduced on 1 May 2026 and the extension of the West Coast Snapper closure to 2027. While these measures are important for sustainability, they are having a clear and ongoing impact on participation, retail trade and regional economies.
As outlined in the attached “AFTA – Let’s Fish SA” performance report, the initial program delivered strong reach and engagement, providing meaningful support to recreational fishing businesses and the broader regional economy. The campaign proved highly effective in maintaining activity during a challenging period.
With the industry now entering the winter months, and facing a traditional downturn in trade compounded by current closures, it is important that we act quickly to promote alternative species and fishing opportunities across South Australia.
Accordingly, AFTA is seeking $300,000 in funding to deliver a second phase of the program, building on its proven success and continuing to support South Australian businesses and communities during this period.
We would welcome the opportunity to discuss this proposal further at your convenience and provide any additional information required.
Thank you again for your ongoing support of the sector, and we look forward to hearing from you.
Kind regards,
Bob