“Some of these questions, such as how many charter boat licences have been issued for this season and what fish charter boat operators are allowed to catch are of a technical and/or operational nature and better directed to the Department of Fisheries.
“The charter boat industry had extensive opportunity to respond to the proposed management changes to the recreational fishing laws and to present its preferred options.
“Changes had been flagged for some time and indeed the previous Labor Minister for Fisheries, Jon Ford, had a package proposing a four-month closure to fishing for high-risk demersal species.
“I was presented with a range of options to manage the recreational fishing sector in a responsible manner that would ensure the long-term sustainability and viability of the fishery.
“The bottom line is that all the research and expert advice I have received indicates that unless there is a 50 per cent reduction in the catch, the fishery is at risk of collapse.
“I have taken action to balance as many of the competing interests as I can while keeping my eye on the overall goal of achieving the 50 per cent catch reduction that is urgently required.
“During the consultation period, charter boat operators suggested many options, including fishing for two days a week.
“Fishing tour operators face some specific challenges and these are addressed in the boat limit for dhufish on charter vessels and the charter fishing licence. I do not intend to go down the path of compensation. Everyone needs to do their part to ensure the sustainability of our fish resources.
“These measures are aimed at ensuring the long-term sustainability of demersal scalefish while minimising the impact of the closed season on key holiday periods.
“I emphasise, the two-month closure only (ONLY) relates to fishing for specific demersal species. It does not prohibit fishing for other species or other activities carried out by charter boat operators.
Minister's office: 9422 3000