THE NSW Minns Labor Government has today released its draft Enhancing Recreational Fishing in NSW Action Plan 2026-2031 for consultation and opened Expressions of Interest for the board of a new independent recreational fishing peak body.
The draft Enhancing Recreational Fishing in NSW Action Plan 2026-2031 aims to deliver greater participation in fishing, promote environmental stewardship of our waterways, promote the benefits of fishing to wellbeing and social lifestyles, and fast track the recovery of depleted species.
Recreational fishing is seeing a rise of interest among young people and the engagement for the plan and the EOI aims to attract the next generation of fishers.
The Government invites feedback and consultation with people across the state to consider the Plan. Some highlights include:
- Boost participation of women and kids, and people with disabilities by 10 percent, with more fishing workshops, promotion, accessible fishing platforms and facilities.
- Make “Gone Fishing Day” a bigger and better event across NSW to celebrate fishing, our iconic coastal and inland locations, and our seafood through deeper and wider partnerships.
- Stock 30 million fish into NSW waterways with improved hatchery infrastructure and focus on sportfish like Mulloway and Dusky Flathead, and iconic natives like Murray Cod.
- Create 50 new fishing sites in regional and metropolitan areas to provide more places for people to fish by improving access, infrastructure and habitat.
- Boost sustainable fishing through responsible practices, reducing wildlife impacts and waste, and empower fishers to be citizen stewards of fisheries and aquatic environments.
Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty said: “Recreational fishing continues to make a significant contribution to the NSW economy, supporting over 14,000 full-time jobs and generating billions in economic activity annually across our regional and coastal communities.
“This action plan demonstrates a strong commitment to both our inland waterway communities and our coastal communities. Our Government is ensuring the social, cultural and economic benefits of recreational fishing flow across the state and where they’re needed,” said Minister Moriarty.
Public consultation on the draft action plan is now open and will close on 24 April 2026 giving people the opportunity to provide feedback and contribute to the final plan.
To view the draft Enhancing Recreational Fishing in NSW Action Plan 2026-2031 and provide feedback, head to — https://www.haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au/rec-fishing-ap
The Government is also opening Expressions of Interest for the board of a new independent recreational fishing peak body comprising of a chair and up to nine other board members, made up of dedicated recreational fishers, professionals and talented individuals.
“This peak body will work closely with the NSW Government to recommend the best ways forward to sustainably manage recreational fishing and broaden its participation,” said Minister Moriarty.
People with a broad knowledge of recreational fishing and a range of experiences and skills such as effective leadership, communications and innovation can submit their EOI via fisheries.info@dpird.nsw.gov.au by 30 March 2026.
For more information visit https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fishing/recreational/resources/proposed-recreational-fishing-peak-body
