The Cook Government has announced one of the most severe fisheries management actions in Western Australia's history, declaring a permanent end to commercial demersal fishing along nearly 900 kilometres of the state's west coast.
A Drastic Reset for Depleted Fisheries
Premier Roger Cook confirmed the sweeping reforms on Wednesday, stating the measures were essential to prevent the collapse of iconic species. The West Coast bioregion, stretching from Black Point in the south to Kalbarri in the north, will become a zone exclusively for recreational fishing from January 1. The government will facilitate a $20 million buyback of commercial licences for line and gill net fisheries operating in the area.
"These are difficult decisions for Government, they're tough decisions. We acknowledge that and it will impact everyone," Mr Cook said. "We're not winning the fight, so we're making the tough decision today to really create that reset and make sure that we preserve these fish species for the future."
Extended Closures and Reduced Catch Limits
The existing ban on recreational fishing for demersal species, which includes prized table fish like pink snapper and dhufish, will now remain in force until at least spring 2027. In a further significant move, charter fishing operations in the Perth metropolitan area will be closed from December 16 this year.
For the remainder of the West Coast zone outside Perth, charter fishing under a tag system will continue but with a drastically reduced annual catch limit of just 25 tonnes. The dire state of stocks was highlighted by Fisheries Minister Jackie Jarvis, who cited a Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development assessment showing spawning biomass for key species is at least 80 per cent depleted.
"The risk of species becoming extinct demanded action from the Government," Minister Jarvis stated.
Statewide Reforms and Support Package
The reforms extend beyond the west coast. From January 1, catch limits for commercial demersal fishing will be halved in the Kimberley, Pilbara, and South Coast bioregions. To support the transition and aid stock recovery, the State Government has unveiled a $29.2 million support package.
The comprehensive package includes:
- $20 million for the commercial licence buyback in the West Coast zone.
- $1.9 million to develop alternative recreational fishing experiences for anglers.
- $3.3 million for tackle shop rebates for recreational boat owners, aimed at supporting both fishers and small businesses.
Minister Jarvis emphasised the long-term goal, saying the government wanted to ensure future generations could enjoy the state's world-class fishing. The measures represent a profound shift in managing Western Australia's marine resources, prioritising ecological survival over immediate economic gain.
