Last Thursday, 23 October, AFTA’s Independent Chair, Bob Baldwin and AFTA SA Board Member, Alicia Bolitho, attended a press conference with the South Australian Premier, Peter Malinauskas.
AFTA welcomes the South Australian Government’s $300,000 investment in the Let’s Fish SA campaign to support local tackle retailers in conjunction with a wider support package for recreational fishing. However, AFTA was not consulted on the additional recreational fishing restrictions announced at the same time and has concerns about the lack of consultation and the process by which these changes were introduced.
These restrictions, including a 50% reduction in recreational bag and boat limits for key species, were implemented with minimal notice and without engagement with industry stakeholders. They represent an imbalance in access between the Commercial and Recreational sectors and pose a significant threat to the recreational fishing sector, particularly as it enters its peak summer season.
AFTA remains committed to sustainable fisheries management that protects both fish stocks and the livelihoods of South Australians who rely on recreational fishing, but is calling for further consultation with the Government and a reconsideration of the restrictions to ensure a balanced and sustainable outcome for all sectors.
Summary of the Support Package
- Financial Relief for Businesses: Support of $50,000 for each affected tackle shop and related industry.
- Boating Cost Reductions: The government will halve the cost of boat and trailer registration for 12 months, starting 1 December. In addition, the Government has initiated free boat ramp access for 12 months and the removal of vehicle access fees for coastal national parks.
- Recreational Fishing Trade Sector Investment: $300,000 for the AFTA Let’s Fish SA campaign.
Summary of Key Restrictions
- 50% reduction in recreational bag and boat limits for all species in Gulf St Vincent.
- 50% reduction in recreational bag and boat limits for key (Calamari, Squid, King George Whiting, Garfish & Blue Swimmer Crab) in Spencer Gulf.
- An extended Snapper ban with no new stock assessment data until 2027 (excludes the south east).
- Commercial fishing is at full closure in the Gulf St Vincent.
- Commercial fishing continues at full capacity in the Spencer Gulf, including for non-quota species.
The following map demonstrates the imbalance in access restrictions and their impact across sectors and regions.
- Spencer Gulf: Commercial fishing continues at 100%, while recreational quotas are halved.
- Gulf St Vincent: Recreational quotas for all species are halved, while commercial fishing is closed.
AFTA has formally requested further consultation with the Premier and Ministers to enable:
- A review of the underlying data underpinning the restrictions.
- A review and rollback of the restrictions.
- A co-designed recovery plan involving all stakeholders.
As we continue to advocate for fair, transparent and sustainable fisheries management, AFTA remains focused on delivering tangible support to our members. The Let’s Fish SA marketing campaign, funded through the $300,000 Government investment, will launch this week. This campaign aims to drive foot traffic into stores, boost sales, and reinforce the value of recreational fishing across South Australia. This campaign is a critical step in supporting tackle retailers during a challenging period, and we look forward to working with members to maximise its impact.