Coalition supports end of commercial netting in the bay

Shadow Minister for Agriculture, Peter Walsh

The Liberal-Nationals Coalition will support the Fisheries Amendment Bill 2015, but will move one amendment to bring forward the date to end netting in Corio Bay.

The proposed Bill schedules the phase-out of commercial net fishing in Port Phillip Bay by April 2022 and Corio Bay by April 2018.

Leader of The Nationals and Shadow Minister for Agriculture Peter Walsh said the Coalition’s amendment proposes bringing forward the date to end netting in Corio Bay to April 2017.

“This date change would bring faster resolution to a long-fought local issue, and would ensure it is resolved well and truly before the next election,” Mr Walsh said.

Mr Walsh said the policy to end commercial netting in Port Phillip and Corio bays was first announced by the Coalition in November last year.

“This will help to protect the health of the bays and will give the state’s 838,000 fishers a better chance of catching a fish,” Mr Walsh said.

“Fishing is a popular pastime in Victoria and is a great way for families and friends to spend some time outdoors together.

“Recreational fishing generates $7.1 billion in economic activity for our state and supports around 34,000 jobs.

“Phasing out commercial netting will ensure we have healthy bays and better fishing opportunities for many years to come.”

Media contact: Sarah O’Connor 0432 074 888 sarah.oconnor@opposition.vic.gov.au