VICTORIA’S Department of Primary Industries has released a discussion paper on proposals to improve the management of the state’s fisheries.
VIC DPI says the paper is designed to help in making strategic decisions on fisheries management, taking account of a range of current and emerging opportunities and challenges such as changes in population, global markets and climate variability.
The primary aim of the paper is to build a stronger foundation for fishing in Victoria so that rec fishers can continue to enjoy their sport, while commercial fishers and charter operators can continue to run businesses with confidence.
VID DPI is working with sector leaders to get feedback on high level policy proposals before 30 November 2011 and is welcoming written comments from the fishing community.
All feedback will be used to inform the development of the final strategy for release in early in 2012. The strategy will then be used to guide the development of detailed plans for each major fishery over the coming years, which will include widespread discussions with the fishing community.
The Future Fisheries Strategy: Proposals for Reform paper is available on the DPI website at www.dpi.vic.gov.au/fisheries