World Fisheries Day is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate Australia’s sustainable, productive and well-managed fisheries and aquaculture industries.
Deputy Secretary for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Policy Matt Lowe said Australian fisheries were leading the way in sustainable practices.
“For a start, the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation’s 2024 Status of Australian Fish Stocks report found that Australia’s fish stocks are well-managed with 85% considered sustainable or recovering,” Mr Lowe said.
“Maintaining sustainable fish stocks requires good science and careful management. Australia is a leading example of how to balance economic and environmental interest so there’s a long-term future for our nation’s $3.6 billion fisheries and aquaculture industry.
“Thanks to international collaboration through the Commission for the Conservation of Southern Bluefin Tuna, cutting edge science from CSIRO, strong management by the Australian Fisheries Management Authority and industry leadership, this year has seen the first delisting of a commercial fish species under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act, the Southern Bluefin Tuna.
“The Australian Government is also considering measures that would prevent seafood imports that may involve illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing.
“Australia’s fisheries have a fantastic story to tell – one where industry and strong environmental values can operate in tandem with each other.
“Australia’s fisheries sector is committed to supporting a thriving industry and a healthy environment, and consumers both domestically and internationally can be assured the seafood on their plate is among the most sustainable in the world.”
