Thu 03 June, 2010

Fisheries Minister Norman Moore has called for public comment on a discussion paper detailing the framework for a proposed new Act of Parliament to manage the State’s fisheries and other aquatic biological resources.

Mr Moore said significant pressures had developed in Western Australia’s fisheries and the aquatic environment, since the current Fish Resources Management Act 1994 (FRMA) came into force 16 years ago.

“The proposed Act will replace the FRMA and the Pearling Act 1990, establishing the basis for a ‘sea change’ in the management of aquatic biological resources, fisheries, and their environment,” he said.

“There is a critical need to provide an effective legal framework, which can meet the sustainability challenges posed by WA’s marine and freshwater environments and better integrate our approach across government and industry.

“The paper adopts a strategic view of how the legislation can ensure we continue to enjoy our oceans and rivers in an ecologically sustainable manner.”

The Minister said that with WA’s population expanding, demand for natural resources was increasing and it was vital aquatic ecosystems were appropriately managed and protected.

“Our goal is sustainable use of our aquatic resources for the long term - the ongoing environmental, social and economic health of our society,” he said.

“We have done much in developing sustainable managed fisheries and protecting a world- class marine environment.

“A more integrated approach, with sufficient flexibility, will be needed to meet the challenges ahead.

“With population growth, climate change is another developing pressure that will also need to be understood for its potential effects on fish and their habitat.

“Discussion and feedback about how we move forward, to meet the challenges of the future, will be vital to ensuring we have a sustainable future for our valued living aquatic resources and I invite public submissions on the framework presented.”

Submissions close on July 26, 2010. After analysis, a final proposal for the new Act will be developed. Subject to State Cabinet approval, a draft Bill will be prepared and further public input will then be sought on the detailed content of the new Act.

Details about how to lodge a submission can be found on the department’s website at http://www.fish.wa.gov.au, where you can also read or download a copy of ‘A Sea Change for Aquatic Sustainability’ -Fisheries Occasional Paper 79 (follow the home page link).

Minister's office - 9422 3000