Cook Government's failed Fish Management llustration: Don Lindsay~|~|8TtApfyMy5
UPDATE: The Western Australian Government’s controversial fishing reforms are igniting widespread backlash as the Premier, Roger Cook, claims local fish stocks are on the brink of extinction. The announcement has raised alarms among the 2.5 million West Australians who depend on local fisheries, with critics labeling the initiative a blatant attempt to “fish for votes.”
These sweeping changes, dubbed a “demersal reform package,” aim to restrict access to the West Coast Zone, effectively transforming it into an exclusive playground for a select group of recreational fishers. The reforms include a staggering 21-month closure for commercial fishing, a move that many argue ignores scientific advice in favor of political expediency ahead of the 2029 election.
Jackie Jarvis, the Fisheries Minister, has been accused of sacrificing the entire commercial fishing sector. Critics assert that this decision will leave the 10,000 recreational fishers with high-powered boats as the only beneficiaries, while the rest of the population is left to grapple with rising fish prices for dhufish and snapper that may reach $100 per kilo.
Experts argue the claim of fish stock “extinction” is misleading. Marine biologists emphasize that the dhufish population is under pressure but far from extinction. This rhetoric is viewed as a political tactic to garner support for the government’s agenda, which critics argue lacks a basis in scientific reality.
The proposed “recovery closure” is viewed by many as a two-year holiday for recreational fishers rather than an effective solution to the supposed crisis. As the government prepares for a massive influx of boats to regional areas, tensions are expected to rise among local communities who rely on accessible fishing grounds.
In a statement, Trevor Whittington, CEO of WAFarmers, expressed deep concern over the government’s approach. He warned that the decision does not reflect the needs of the broader population who depend on affordable fish. “This is not just about dhufish; it’s about food security for families who cannot fish for themselves,” he stated.
The government’s budget cuts to the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) have further raised concerns about enforcement capabilities. With an already strained budget, the agency is expected to oversee complex new regulations without additional funding, raising doubts about effective management.
Looking ahead, the reopening of the West Coast Zone in 2027 could lead to even more drastic measures if fish populations do not recover as anticipated. With 60,000 new residents moving to WA each year, increasing pressure on fish stocks could lead to permanent closures for recreational fishing, a scenario many fear is on the horizon.
Critics also highlight the potential shift in political alliances, as recreational fishing advocates align with the Greens—who have historically pushed for stricter regulations that could further threaten fishing access.
As the public absorbs these changes, many are left wondering how the government’s “cunning plan” will affect their wallets at the fish counter. The ongoing debate challenges the government to balance economic interests with environmental stewardship, leaving many to question who will really benefit from these reforms.
As this story unfolds, the implications for West Australians remain significant. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing situation.
