
Victorian boaters, fishers and all water lovers are being asked to have their say on how to improve safety and access around the recreational use of waterways across the state.
Minister for Ports Luke Donnellan today (November 16, 2016) launched a discussion paper to help shape the development of a Safe and Accessible Victorian Waterways Strategy.
"We were elected to put people first – and that means boosting
Victoria’s visitor economy by protecting the pristine waterways that
support a range of industries from commercial shipping to recreational
fishing," says Mr Donnellan, Minister for Ports.
"Our waterways
are also where Victorians go to spend quality time with their families –
that’s why we’re working to make them safer and more accessible for
all.
Victoria’s 2500 kilometres of coastline, 85,000 kilometres of rivers and 13,000 natural wetlands are popular destinations for Victorians and visitors, boosting the state’s economy.
Recreational boating and fishing contributes around $11.6 billion to the Victorian economy each year and accounts for about 51,700 full-time jobs.
The recreational use of our waterways has continued to rise in the last few years and the the State Government says it is is putting people first by ensuring facilities and services are safe and convenient.
The discussion paper outlines the value, management, safety and accessibility of our waterways. Developed with input from the boating and fishing industry, waterway managers and local government, it will consult with community and stakeholders to protect their future.
It builds on more than $15 million in safety initiatives and recreational boating facilities that the Labor Government has provided since we were elected in 2014.
"You don’t have to own a boat or a fishing rod to have your say –
everyone is encouraged to get involved through this discussion paper and
help shape the future of our rivers, coasts, and wetlands," Mr
Donnellan, Minister for Ports, said.
The Safe and Accessible Victorian Waterways Strategy:
>> Have Your Say On The Future Of Victoria’s Waterways
>> Discussion paper launched to help shape the development of a 'Safe and Accessible Victorian Waterways Strategy'
>>
Recreational boating and fishing contributes around $11.6 billion to
the Vic economy each year and accounts for about 51,700 full-time jobs
>> More than $15 million spent on safety initiatives and recreational boating
facilities in Victoria since 2014
>> Everyone is encouraged to get involved through this discussion paper and
help shape the future of our rivers, coasts, and wetlands
Have your say on the future of Victorian waterways by completing the feedback form on the website, or email safeaccessible.waterways@ecodev.vic.gov.au. Submissions close on Wednesday, December 14, 2016.
The discussion paper is available at
Photo Credit: First two photos supplied by Whittley.