Proposed cuts to Victorian Fisheries Authority raise concerns about illegal fishing

Proposed Changes to Victorian Fisheries Authority Raise Concerns Over Illegal Fishing Practices

Victoria’s fishing authority is facing a significant overhaul that has sparked controversy and concerns over potential consequences related to illegal fishing activities. The Victorian Fisheries Authority (VFA) is proposing a restructuring plan that involves reducing legal enforcement officers and slashing overall staffing levels by 50%.

Under the proposed changes, five existing stations around Port Phillip and Western Port Bay would be closed, with plans to establish three new “community hubs” geared towards public education. The VFA aims to replace the current 73 fisheries officer positions statewide with 36 engagement officer roles, marking a 66% reduction in staff specifically servicing the Port Phillip and Western Port Bay regions.

Former supervising officer David Burgess, with nearly 50 years of experience, warned that these cuts could lead to a spike in maritime crime and have detrimental effects on the environment. He highlighted the ease of obtaining high-value sea resources like abalone, potentially attracting organized crime into this space.

VFA chief executive Travis Dowling defended the proposed changes as targeting those breaking the law intentionally. He emphasized that the restructuring aimed to refocus resources on addressing major organized fishing offenses while maintaining vigilance over recreational fishers adhering to regulations. The establishment of a new major fisheries crime unit would be pivotal in clamping down on high-level offenders, according to Dowling.

Concerns were raised about potential increases in illegal fishing activities, particularly in lucrative markets like abalone. Black market repercussions could impact both commercial fisherman and export fisheries, jeopardizing biodiversity preservation efforts and compliance standards necessary for export accreditation.

Veteran fisherman Ken Schwarzemberg expressed fears about the impact on commercial fishing businesses, as dwindling stocks and a potential influx of illegal activity threatened livelihoods. He lamented the depletion of marine resources like periwinkles and pipis due to unchecked harvesting practices. Schwarzemberg highlighted the risk of lower market prices for catches and the erosion of local fishing industry sustainability.

While acknowledging the anticipated significant cost savings for the Victorian government, critics remain skeptical about potential negative impacts of the proposed VFA changes. The public’s expectation of government efficiency and savings was cited as a driving factor behind the restructuring plan.

Despite concerns raised by industry stakeholders and experts, Minister for Environment and Outdoor Recreation Steve Dimopoulos refrained from commenting on the proposed changes. As the debate over the future of Victoria’s fishing authority continues, stakeholders hope that a balanced approach can be achieved to safeguard both marine resources and the livelihoods of fishing communities.