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Applications for the NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) 2022-23 Dollar for Dollar Native Fish Stocking Program are now open, with angling and community groups, individuals, councils and other relevant organisations encouraged to apply.

DPI Program Leader Stocking & Fisheries Enhancement Operations, Jim Harnwell the Dollar for Dollar program is another great example of NSW fishing licence fees at work, with many hundreds of thousands of fish stocked into various NSW waterways each season.

“The program, which is now in its 24th season, offers matching funding to purchase native fish from registered private hatcheries for restocking into approved public waters in NSW,” Mr Harnwell said.

“The program is highly supported and well received by the community, with many stocking groups participating each round.

“Approximately 536,000 native sportfish were stocked into various NSW waterways through the Dollar for Dollar program last year.

“The stocking of native fish into NSW waterways has assisted with the recovery of iconic species such as Murray Cod, Australian Bass and Golden Perch from the devastating effects from the bushfires and drought of 2019/20.

“Fish stocking is recognised for its importance to the community in terms of providing quality recreational fishing, aboriginal and cultural opportunities, conservation outcomes and subsequent social and economic benefits.”

Mr Hanwell said, the Recreational Fishing Trust supports fishing clubs and other community organisations wishing to stock native fish by matching funds between $2,000 and $6,000.

“Dollar for Dollar matching funds are available to stock high priority recreational fishing species including Australian Bass, Golden Perch and Murray Cod,” Mr Harnwell said.

“The Dollar for Dollar program helps build better recreational fishing opportunities for our State’s anglers and helps protect our native fish stocks for future generations.

“It also helps conserve and safeguard our unique aquatic biodiversity and helps deliver important socio-economic benefits, especially in regional areas.”