The Nationals WA have successfully secured long-term protections for WA’s fishing industry, with Labor expected to concede to immense pressure from The Nationals and Fishing Families WA by agreeing to amend the Fisheries Resource Management Act 1994.
Despite Premier Roger Cook dismissing the industry’s proposed changes as »a.dog.act?‹ he has now been forced into a policy backflip following relentless pressure from a well-executed and determined campaign led by Fishing Families WA and The Nationals WA
“Labor’s refusal to amend the existing Fish Resources Management Act was a direct attack on an industry that has built WA’s economy.”
“The Nationals WA understand the WA Fishing Industry’s value to both regional communities and global markets, and we will collaborate with stakeholders to ensure the businesses, workers, and families who rely on commercial fishing can continue to thrive for generations to come.”
Key Commitments from The Nationals WA:
Securing Rights-Based Fishing Entitlements
In Government, The Nationals WA will ensure that Individual Transferable Quotas (ITQs) and other commercial fishing and aquaculture access entitlements are registered, enduring and assignable and fully protected under law, guaranteeing entitlements remain strong and dependable for future generations.
Introducing 10-Year Licence Provisions
The Nationals WA will implement 10-year licence provisions, providing long term security and stability ensuring businesses can plan and invest confidently.
Special Inquiry into Marine Parks & South Coast Marine Park Review
The Nationals WA will conduct a Special Inquiry into the selection and implementation of Marine Parks in WA, including a comprehensive review of the South Coast Marine Park, ensuring genuine consultation with local stakeholders.
The Nationals will also release the scientific evidence of impacted zones and reduce sanctuary zones to ensure commercial fishers are not put out of business.
Supporting Independent Funding for Peak Bodies
The Nationals WA will facilitate independent funding as part of the review of sector funding agreements, ensuring that peak bodies have secure, long-term funding. In a Nationals Government
funding will remain unconditional, protecting the ability of independent bodies to advocate for industry issues without government interference.
Increased Department Funding for Core Projects
The Nationals WA will work with industry stakeholders to identify and fund key departmental projects that are essential to maintaining a thriving fishing sector as part of a robust and fully funded standalone Department of Fisheries.
The Nationals WA Fishing Spokesperson and Candidate for Geraldton, Kirrilee Warr, warned that with the Greens poised to dominate the Upper House and hold Labor hostage, the future of WA’s fishing industry remains at serious risk, regardless of any commitments made today.
“The Nationals WA provide a rock-solid guarantee that, in Government, we will secure the future of WA’s commercial fishing and rock lobster industry, not just for survival, but for long-term success.”
“Only The Nationals WA will stand up for fishing families, providing the strong representation needed to protect this vital industry from radical policies and regulatory overreach.”
