Shadow Minister for Fisheries Kirrilee Warr MLA has welcomed the Legislative Council’s decision to establish an inquiry into fisheries management in Western Australia, following months of advocacy by The Nationals WA.
The inquiry, supported by more than 27,000 Western Australians who signed a petition calling for action, will investigate key issues affecting the future of fishing in WA, including fish stock management, marine parks, offshore renewable energy developments, illegal fishing, shark depredation, and whether government agencies have the resources needed to effectively manage the sector.
Ms Warr said the inquiry was an important step towards restoring confidence in fisheries management and ensuring decisions affecting fishers are transparent and evidence based.
“Today is a significant day for fishing in Western Australia,” Ms Warr said.
“Our fisheries are an important environmental, social and economic asset.
“This inquiry will help establish what is impacting fish stocks, how decisions are being made, and what changes may be needed to secure the future of fishing in WA.”
“Western Australians have endured some of the most restrictive fishing measures in the State’s history.
“Recreational and commercial fishers alike deserve answers about how these decisions were reached and whether the management framework is delivering the best outcomes.”
“It is time for greater transparency around fisheries management and for the community to have confidence that decisions are being made on the basis of sound science, proper consultation and long-term planning.”
Ms Warr said the inquiry would provide an opportunity to examine a decade of fisheries management under the Labor Government.
“Over the past decade, fisheries policy has been characterised by uncertainty, shifting priorities and inconsistent decision-making,” she said.
“This inquiry will help determine how key decisions have been made, whether the current system is fit for purpose, and what reforms may be required to better support sustainable fisheries into the future.”
The Nationals WA have been calling for a parliamentary inquiry into fisheries management since October 2025 and have worked closely with fishing communities across the State to secure this outcome.
