Labor casts its $55m federal election lure before Australian voters
The Opposition usurps the Government’s cash splash aimed at the boating, fishing voteFirst it was the Liberal Party announcing a $29 million package to woo fish- and boat-friendly voters at the polling stations. Now Labor has jumped on board, pledging a larger $55 million splash of cash if it sweeps to power in the May 18 federal election.
Under Labor's plan, a Shorten government will create a $45 million recreational fishing support fund aimed at fixing existing boat ramps, and building new ones.
“Projects to be considered for funding will be identified in consultation with representatives from the recreational fishing community, peak bodies, local government and other elected officials,” a statement outlining the policy said.
>> Morrison government commits $29m in federal funds to improve boat ramps, fishing
Another $10 million will be allocated to adding another million native fish to Australia’s inland waterways. By comparison, Victoria added almost six million native fish to its system of waterways in 2018 alone.
Talks with anglers
It says it will talk with anglers before deciding where the fish will be stocked.
“Labor will consult with recreational fishing groups on the best way to replenish native fish stocks, such as which species and breeds should be priorities,” it said.
“Options for funding will include funding support for dedicated fish hatcheries and co-investing in existing state government native fish breeding programs.”
The plan also spells out that it will support a national “Gone Fishing” day, and protect and restore fish habitats via a $500,000 grant for a “Give Back to Habitat” campaign to restore fish habitats.
Prime minister's roundtable
The shadow government has also said it will establish what it calls a prime minister’s recreational fishing roundtable, a group that will meet once a year to “discuss pressing issues with both the prime minister and the minister responsible for fisheries”.
“The annual roundtable will be held in regional Australia – for example North West Tasmania, the North Coast of New South Wales, or Central or North Queensland: areas in Australia where recreational fishing is a major pastime,” the policy statement says.
“The roundtable will be tasked with discussing guaranteed access for recreational anglers to fish, to ensure recreational fishing is supported.”
The Morrison Government’s post-election policy also says the government will help build and repair boat ramps, as well as improving facilities at camping spots where fishers gather.
The federal election will be held on May 18.
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