Media release from the Assistant Minister for Agriculture and Water Resources, Richard Colbeck
The second meeting of the National Fisheries Advisory Council (NFAC) in Canberra today will see representatives from Australia's commercial, recreational and Indigenous fishing sectors come together to discuss issues facing Australia's seafood industry.
Assistant Minister for Agriculture and Water Resources, Senator Richard Colbeck, said the NFAC will discuss challenges and opportunities for Australian fishers, including relationship building between sectors, access to resources, resource sharing and future proofing the industry.
"Australia's seafood industry is world-class but we are seeing that it is vulnerable to third parties seeking to limit fair and science-based access, to the detriment of industry and jobs," Senator Colbeck said.
"NFAC brings together leaders from the commercial, recreational and Indigenous fishing sectors and encourages discussion and progress on issues affecting all sectors.
"Members have been chosen for their expertise and understanding of fisheries issues, geographic representation and ability to consider the long-term interests for the benefit of all Australians.
"Our oceans are a shared resource, and as a government we are committed to securing the future of all of Australia's fishing sectors—commercial, recreational, Indigenous and aquaculture—and the jobs and opportunities they create.
"If we are to strengthen our seafood industry it is crucial all sectors work together effectively to combat shared challenges.
"I look forward to continuing to work with the NFAC to foster, improve and grow our commercial, Indigenous and recreational fishing sectors."
