From the Department of Primary Industries

Thursday August 14, 2008

FISHERS COMMENT ON PROPOSED CHANGES

Fisheries Victoria has received more than 800 submissions about the new regulations.

The new regulations were released for 60 days of public consultation which began in late May and closed in early August 2008.

The public consultation process is an important step in renewing the regulations, which sunset (expire) every ten years.

Fisheries Victoria Executive Director Dr Peter Appleford said the high number of submissions reflected the community’s interest in fisheries management, particularly amongst the recreational sector.

“Nearly 90 per cent of submissions came from recreational anglers, which is not surprising given the size of this sector.

“The high number of submissions can also be attributed to the Department’s awareness
campaign, which actively encouraged all sectors to ‘have their say’.

“Submissions are currently being compiled for analysis and a subsequent decision by
Government.

“Announcements about the new fisheries regulations will be made late in 2008 although the
commencement date is expected to be early in 2009.

“Recreational anglers should retain their 2007/08 Recreational Fishing Guide until the new one is released next year.”

Recrational Fishing Guides are available free of charge through fishing tackle shops that sell
recreational fishing licences, DPI offices or by ringing the DPI Customer Service Centre on
136 186

For more information about the fisheries regulations review visit www.dpi.vic.gov.au/fishing