3 September 2024
Territorians are being encouraged to have their say on the future management of Golden Snapper in the Greater Darwin region, with strong community interest already shown in the first two weeks of consultation.
Since public consultation opened on 27 March 2026, more than 1,000 surveys have been completed and 14 submissions received, highlighting the importance to the Territory community.
The Northern Territory Government is taking a science-based approach to ensure Golden Snapper stocks are sustainable for future generations and is committed to engaging with Territorians before any decisions are made.
Department of Agriculture and Fisheries Senior Executive Director of Fisheries, Matt Osborne, said community input will play a key role in shaping the path forward.
"Golden Snapper is an iconic Territory species, right now the science tells us we need to act," Mr Osborne said.
"By working with the community and industry, we can help ensure reef fishing around Darwin remains something Territorians can enjoy for generations to come.
"All five stock assessments completed since 2011 have found Golden Snapper in the Greater Darwin region to be overfished," he said.
The 2025 stock assessment classified Golden Snapper stocks in the Greater Darwin region as depleted, with mature, breeding-sized fish at just 14 per cent of unfished levels, and the average size of fish declining in the region.
This assessment is based on international best practice methods and multiple lines of evidence, including 6 Darwin region recreational fishing surveys, 3 Northern Territory-wide recreational fishing surveys, commercial and charter logbook data, biological information and scientific research. The assessment was independently reviewed by a national expert and concluded that management is necessary to recover stocks.
Amelia Vellar, Chief Executive Officer of the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries said the consultation process is about working together to recover Golden Snapper and preserve reef fishing in the Greater Darwin region.
"We've seen a strong response so far, and it's encouraging to see so many Territorians taking the time to share their views," Ms Vellar said.
"No decisions have been made about future management - this consultation is a genuine opportunity for the community to help shape what happens next.
"We understand how important fishing is for recreation, tourism and local businesses, which is why it's vital we hear from industry and from all Territorians," she said.
