Buy-back of Gippsland commercial licences

Victorian Minister for Agriculture and Food Security Peter Walsh announced yesterday (November 10) that the  Victorian Coalition Government, if re-elected, would commit up to $2 million for a voluntary buy-back of commercial licences, which had been called for by both commercial and recreational fishing sectors.

"If re-elected the Victorian Coalition would commit to a fair and equitable exit strategy for Gippsland Lakes licence holders over the next four years," Mr Walsh said.

"Reducing commercial fishing efforts will boost opportunities for recreational fishing and, in turn, help grow Gippsland businesses that are supported by recreational fishing tourism."

An independent panel would be established to make recommendations to the Victorian Government on how the buyback would be structured. The panel would consult with the peak bodies Seafood Industry Victoria and VRFish and key stakeholders Future Fish, Australian Fishing Trading Association and others. The panel will make recommendations on licence types, species and fishing methods applicable to the buyback.

The Nationals local Member for Gippsland East Tim Bull welcomed the initiative: "A voluntary buyback is a proposal I have received advocacy on from both commercial and recreational interests and I am delighted at today’s announcement by Minister Walsh that we have been able to progress this," Mr Bull said.

"In the last four years the Coalition Government has invested $10 million into practical projects that have helped to protect and improve Gippsland Lakes and I’m sure this commitment to a voluntary commercial licence buyback will be well received."

Mr Walsh said a re-elected Coalition Government had a vision to grow Victoria into a "recreational fishing mecca" and the Gippsland Lakes initiative complimented the Coalition’s commitment to phase out commercial netting in Port Phillip and Corio Bay.

"As well as continuing the Recreational Fishing Grants Program, the Coalition Government boosted investment to record levels during the last four years with our $16 million Recreational Fishing Initiative," Mr Walsh said.

"Under the Coalition Government, there has been more improvements to facilities, more boat ramps upgrades, more fish stockings and more artificial reef installations as well as a strong emphasis on education and compliance."