Fisheries Management Bill to benefit 'all sectors'

NSW Minister for Primary Industries Katrina Hodgkinson said this week that the Fisheries Management Amendment Bill currently in State Parliament supports all NSW fishers, by allowing for better future management of our fishing industry today and into the future.

"The Bill addresses long-standing needs across the range of fisheries management by simplifying processes, streamlining administration and strengthening biosecurity provisions to protect our important fishing industry," Ms Hodgkinson said. "The proposed amendments to the now 20-year-old Act will benefit all fishing sectors – commercial, recreational, charter and aboriginal. The Bill reduces red tape and provides greater flexibility to what is currently a very rigid Act.

"The Fisheries Management Act 1994 was appropriate in its day, but the world has moved on and it is time to introduce more flexibility into the regulation of the fisheries sector.

"The introduction of a new online administration system, FishOnline, is an example of the Bill bringing the fishing sector into line with modern practice." Minister Hodgkinson said the Bill provides the framework for implementing the reforms that were recommended by the 2012 Independent Review of Commercial Fisheries Policy, Management and Administration.

"In 2012 the review was welcomed by the NSW commercial fishing sector..." said Ms Hodgkinson.

"Since then, we have worked with stakeholders to implement these much needed changes. The NSW Liberals and Nationals Government are focused on enhancing the capacity for industry to be more in charge of its own business.

"Contrary to the assertions of some, the amendments to the Fisheries Management Act 1994 do not impact in any way on the Commercial Fisheries Reform Program, which is currently undergoing consultation with the Structural Adjustment Review Committee and fishers. The Bill provides the flexibility to allow for any changes, once it is finalised with industry.

"The NSW Government is committed to ensuring our fisheries resources are effectively managed, are accessible for all sectors and sustainable for future generations," Ms Hodgkinson said.