The commercial Marine Scalefish Fishery extends along the State’s coastline from the West Australian border right through to the Victorian border.
Fisheries Minister Gail Gago said the fishery features 60 marine scalefish species including premium seafood such as Snapper, King George Whiting, Southern Garfish and Southern Calamari, and is a valuable social and economic contributor to regional communities.
“South Australia’s clean marine waters are home to some of the most sought after seafood in the world, and this fishery alone produces approximately 3180 tonnes of fish with a gross value of production of almost $24.2 million,” Ms Gago said.
“Importantly the fishery also contributes to the economies of many of our coastal communities through the generation of jobs, processing and retail of fresh fish, as well as through the activities supporting the industry including purchase and maintenance of boats, marine engines, tackle, bait and equipment and more.
“The new plan provides a clear policy framework for the management arrangements required to maintain the health and long-term sustainability of the fishery.
“Ensuring sustainability is a key element of the State Government’s Premium Food and Wine from our Clean Environment strategic priority.
“The plan also sets out the shares of the aquatic resources allocated to the commercial, recreational and Aboriginal traditional fishing sectors and describes a process for reviewing and adjusting allocations.”
Minister Gago said the plan, which has been developed in consultation with industry, allows for a 10 year licence and provides structured methods of monitoring the performance of the fishery and the effectiveness of the plan.
“Both these factors provide greater certainty for the fishery,” Ms Gago said.
“As part of the plan’s development, harvest strategies have been developed for the primary species of King George Whiting, Snapper, Southern Garfish and Southern Calamari, as well as Mud Cockles.
“These strategies along with the other management initiatives outlined in the plan will promote ecologically sustainable outcomes for the fishery and support the economic strength of this valuable industry.”
The Management Plan for the South Australian Commercial Marine Scalefish Fishery has been developed under the Fisheries Management Act 2007 by the Fisheries Council of South Australia.
