Victorian Fisheries Authority set to take charge

The Labor Government in Victoria has just introduced legislation to the Parliament to pave the way for a new statutory authority to manage fisheries in the State.

The Victorian Fisheries Authority Bill is said to deliver a key element of the Labor Government’s Target One Million election commitment and set the path for a new, modern, fit-for-purpose authority to ensure efficient service delivery across all fisheries sectors.

The Victorian Fisheries Authority (VFA) will be directly accountable for the administrative, licensing, compliance and enforcement functions currently undertaken by Fisheries Victoria.

"Victorians love their fish, whether its Friday night fish and chips or getting the tinny out on the weekend," quipped Minister for Agriculture Jaala Pulford.

"The new Victorian Fisheries Authority will give all Victorians the confidence we have well managed, sustainable fisheries that will be there for future generations.

"The Authority will work in partnership with commercial and recreational fishers to manage our fisheries for all Victorians."

The new authority is on course to be operational from July 1, 2017, and its transparent governance arrangements will drive improved performance, Labor says.

It will support the development of recreational and commercial fishing and aquaculture in Victoria, regulate fisheries and provide advice to government on a range of fisheries management opportunities.

The new Authority will be led by an independent board and take an integrated and collaborative approach to the management of Victoria’s fisheries resources.

For more information on going fishing in Victoria visit www.vic.gov.au/fisheries.