Guy Barnett,Minister for Primary Industries and Water
The Tasmanian Government is committed to improving legislation governing the State’s fisheries and has today released a Discussion Paper on the future of marine resource management in Tasmania.
The Discussion Paper is part of the review of the Living Marine Resources Management Act 1995 and aims to canvas the views of stakeholders on their experience with administration of the Act as well as ideas for future marine resource management.
The Living Marine Resource Management Act manages and regulates Tasmania’s wild catch fisheries and works as one component of a suite of legislation that manages marine farming activities.
The review will consider how the Living Marine Resource Management Act 1995 aligns with best practice fisheries management principles to help prepare Tasmania for future risks and challenges.
The Act has not had a review since it was implemented 25 years ago and COVID-19 highlighted a lack of flexibility in enabling industry to adapt to changing market conditions and emerging challenges.
Release of the Discussion Paper is the first of two stages of consultation. The Discussion Paper will enable targeted engagement with key stakeholders then a draft White Paper will be developed for public consultation.
The White Paper will consider future options for modern legislation to improve management of Tasmania’s fisheries and prepare Tasmania for future challenges.
Consultation forums on the Discussion Paper will be held with key stakeholder groups in February and March. Members of those groups are encouraged to submit their feedback via their stakeholder group. Submissions from other stakeholders and members of the public will also be accepted.
All written submissions must be received by 31 March 2022.
