The Cook Government has acknowledged that West Australians will be paying more for their favourite seafood takeaways, as a major new fishing ban comes into force to protect threatened species.
"Inconvenient" Ban Sparks Political Fury
Premier Roger Cook's characterisation of the new measures as potentially "inconvenient" for some sparked immediate backlash during a heated Question Time on Thursday. Central Wheatbelt MP Lachlan Hunter led the charge, declaring, "Inconvenient? People are losing their livelihoods."
Mr Cook defended the policy, stating the government had to make tough decisions to safeguard fish stocks for future generations. "This Government has taken the tough decisions to stand up for future generations of fishers, ensuring that our commercial fish stocks are protected and that we can fish sustainably into the future," the Premier said.
He recognised the significant impact, adding, "Of course, we understand that this is impactful. We understand that it will be disappointing and inconvenient for some. It will be devastating for others."
Scope of the Sweeping Fishing Closure
The new rules impose a 21-month ban on catching demersal species, including iconic West Australian fish like dhufish and pink snapper. The closure affects a vast 900-kilometre stretch of coastline from Kalbarri to Augusta.
The timeline for the ban is strict:
- Commercial fishing in the zone will cease from January 1.
- Recreational fishing for these species is prohibited until spring 2027.
- Metro-area charter fishing firms must close from December 16.
A separate ban on trawling for demersal fish will also be implemented in the Pilbara region.
Conservation Needs vs. Economic Impact
Fisheries Minister Jackie Jarvis cited compelling environmental evidence for the decision. She pointed to bycatch deaths, including endangered species caught in trawling nets. "I don't have the exact figures off the top of my head but it was, I think, about 15 dolphins last year that drowned in trawling nets, and higher number of endangered saw fish, as well as some sea snakes and pipe fish," Ms Jarvis explained.
While urging fishers and consumers to target alternative species, the Minister conceded that prices for popular fish like dhufish will climb. "There will be less of these fish in the market for a number of years," she stated.
Highlighting the premium nature of the product, with dhufish fillets already around $90 a kilogram, Ms Jarvis argued sustainability must come first. "But a fish shouldn't be targeted to extinction so the prices can remain low. It is the right thing to do... we have to make sure that we protect these iconic species."
The Opposition has warned that the supply crunch and associated cost increases could push some small businesses, including fish and chip shops, to the brink.
