The Western Australia rock lobster season made history when it started this week, with the launching of a full-quota system and refurbished Department of Fisheries offices in Geraldton.“These latest renovations are part of a strategy to modernise the Department of Fisheries, with a range of new initiatives that demonstrate a commitment to improving the management and administration of fisheries across the State,” said Fisheries Minister Norman Moore.
The new full-quota system builds on smaller quota arrangements that have been in place for the past two years, and accompanies a new fishery management plan, developed to support the industry and encourage sustainable fishing.
“The new management plan brings in measures to further improve flexibility, enable effective business decisions and improved economic returns, with less bureaucracy,” Moore said. “For example, there will be no constraints on pulling times, allowing fishers to work more convenient hours and to take into account weather and sea conditions.”
