President’s and Political Reports

AFTA Chair's Report - September 2026“Sustainability must come first, but allocation must also be fair. Governments must consider the environmental, economic and social value of...

AFTA President's Report - AGM 2026“If we continue to listen, act and keep participation at the centre of our decisions, AFTA will be well placed to support a stronger future for...

AFTA Chair's Report - AGM 2026“The past year has reinforced both the resilience of our industry and the importance of strong, coordinated advocacy.” Message from the Chair Over...

AFTA Chair's Report - July 2026"The proposal represents a substantial shift in recreational fisheries management and raises important questions about trust, consultation,...

AFTA Chair's Report - June 2026 “Access to fishing is more than a recreational issue - it underpins participation, small business confidence, regional economies and the long-term...

AFTA Chair's Report - May 2026“By working together, aligning priorities, and speaking collectively, we place ourselves in a far stronger position to deliver meaningful outcomes...

AFTA Chair's Report - April 2026"the impending amalgamation of the Victorian Fisheries Authority (VFA) and the Game Management Authority (GMA) into a single, centralised...

AFTA Chair's Report - March 2026"Resource security and sovereignty are practical necessities for charter operators, weekend anglers, farmers, truckers, and all Australians who...

AFTA Chair's Report - February 2026 "Encouraging complete families to fish together could enhance the experience and strengthen family bonds." ANGLERS' RETENTION   A Call to...

AFTA Chair's Report - January 2026 The past year has brought a range of challenges for our industry — from algal blooms and demersal closures to marine park restrictions and...

AFTA Chair's Report - December 2025 "This past year has presented numerous challenges for our industry, including algal blooms, marine park closures, species restrictions, and...

AFTA Chair's Report - November 2025"The Australian Fishing Trade Association commends the proactive efforts of various governments in their commitment to ensuring stock...

AFTA Chair's Report - October 2025 AFTA appreciates the genuine support for the South Australian Recreational fishing industry from the SA Premier, The Hon Peter Malinauskas MP,...

AFTA Chair's Report - September 2025Governments should recognise that the Recreational Fishing sector adds over $11 billion to Australia's economy and employs around 100,000 FTE...

AFTA Chair's Report - August 2025 "It’s important to recognise dedicated efforts working towards a more sustainable and vibrant industry, both at the Hall of Fame and Industry...

AFTA Chair's Report - July 2025 "The recreational fishing sector comprises dedicated and resilient individuals who consistently address the challenges they face. However, the...

AFTA Chair's Report - AGM 2025"Central to AFTA's mission is the drive to encourage more individuals, particularly families, women, and young people, to adopt recreational fishing...

AFTA President's Report - AGM 2025"I am grateful for the privilege of serving on the Board for the past nine years"   "Notably, we turned around our financial situation,...

AFTA Chair's Report - June 2025 "The increasing use of machetes as weapons in the community has become a significant safety concern for governments nationwide. However, common...