7 December 2025
Territorians enjoy some of the best fishing in the world, it's a core part of our Territory lifestyle, our economy, and who we are.
That's why, from day one, the CLP Finocchiaro Government set out to get a clear picture of the health of our fisheries.
Today, new NT Fisheries stock assessments show just how much damage eight years of Labor neglect has done to our reef fishery, and why strong action is now needed to rebuild the stocks Territorians rely on.
The assessments, completed under the Coastal Line Fishery Harvest Strategy, reveal Golden Snapper in the Greater Darwin region has collapsed to just 14 per cent of its original stock, and Black Jewfish has dropped to 41 per cent of original levels.
At Channel Point, the situation is even more dire, with Black Jewfish catches falling by more than 90 per cent in the past five years.
Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries Gerard Maley said the CLP Government is restoring the Territory lifestyle, and that means protecting our fishing future.
"We're taking strong action to rebuild Golden Snapper and Black Jewfish so Territorians can keep enjoying the fishing we all grew up with," said Mr Maley.
To support recovery, the Finocchiaro Government has already commenced a suite of programs, including:
A four-year Golden Snapper stocking program, with 58 broodstock collected and breeding underway at the Darwin Aquaculture Centre.
A rollout of Fish Aggregating Devices (FADs) before the end of the year to provide an easy alternative for anglers to target species less susceptible to barotrauma and more suited to catch and release, such as mackerel, queenfish, trevally and billfish.
Artificial reef installations planned for 2026 to create new reef fish habitat.
A temporary fishing exclusion at Channel Point for commercial and charter operators from 1 November 2025 to 28 February 2026 to protect severely depleted Black Jewfish stocks.
Minister Maley said the Government's next step is delivering a comprehensive recovery plan for inshore reef fish, developed in partnership with key fishing stakeholders including AFANT, the NTGFIA, the NT Seafood Council and the Northern Land Council.
"Reef fish recovery is about smarter, sustainable fishing today, so future generations can enjoy the same iconic Territory lifestyle we all treasure," Mr Maley said.
"We're working with fishos, the tourism sector and industry to rebuild these stocks."
The draft recovery plan will be released for public consultation in early 2026.
Territorians are encouraged to play their part by fishing responsibly:
Know your limits - stay within personal possession and vessel limits.
Don't catch more than you need for a feed.
Keep what you catch - avoid releasing smaller fish to catch larger fish.
Know your location - fishing in Reef Fish Protection Areas is illegal and penalties apply.
Stock assessments can be found here: Reef fishing management | NT.GOV.AU here
