Consultation continues on NSW southern fish trawl arrangements

The NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) is continuing its consultation on the proposal to transition from the NSW Southern Fish Trawl Fishery (SFTF) into the Commonwealth Southern and Eastern Scalefish and Shark Fishery (SESSF).

As part of the proposed change, fish stocks would be managed by one jurisdiction, removing unnecessary duplication and administrative burden and operate under a quota system, said DPI. 

DPI said it is listening to all concerns raised and will consider the feedback provided before moving ahead.

The Southern Fish Trawl Transitioning Working Group (SFTTWG) is advisory only. It has been tasked with identifying and resolving issues, negotiating arrangements and providing advice to DPI and the Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA).

Recreational, Aboriginal and environmental stakeholders were given the opportunity to comment on the proposal during the consultation period and have also been invited to attend the final working group this Friday. The working group consists of members from the Professional Fishermen’s Association, AFMA and DPI.