Fisheries management review moves ahead swiftly

Published Sunday, 23 March, 2014 at 03:00 PM

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry
The Honourable John McVeigh

The LNP Government has taken the next step in its bold plan to modernise fishing management in Queensland with the release of the fisheries management review terms of reference today.

Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Minister John McVeigh said the review was aimed at simplifying fisheries management, cutting red tape and improving environmental sustainability.

“Fishing is a key part of the Queensland lifestyle and our State’s economy,” Mr McVeigh said.

“I announced the review on March 6, and today I’m providing important details.

“We want our fisheries management systems and processes to be simple and flexible in delivering sustainably managed fisheries for the benefit of Queenslanders.

“Under near-20 years of Labor governments, fisheries management suffered from neglect.

“The LNP Government is committed to finding solutions for better management, our goal will be a new, simplified regulatory framework across our fisheries.

“During the past week I’ve had many conversations with fishing groups about how they can be involved, and what information the government will be looking for.”

Mr McVeigh said the review would be wide-ranging and focussed on management systems not individual rules currently in place.

“The review will cover all aspects of commercial, recreational and traditional fishing. Aquaculture issues will also be considered where appropriate,” he said.

“An independent specialist will be engaged to lead the review to provide greater transparency.

“To support the work of the independent consultant I will also be appointing a Ministerial Advisory Committee comprising a range of people external to the government who can represent the diverse fisheries interests in Queensland.

“There will be an opportunity for people to provide feedback throughout the review, and this will begin once the independent specialist has been appointed.”

For more information on the terms of reference for the fisheries review, visit www.daff.qld.gov.au or call 13 25 23.

[ENDS] 23 March 2014

Media Contact: Louise Gillis 0408 709 160