A recent, substantial change in Western Australia's fishing rules, enacted on January 1, 2026, has triggered significant hardship for various sectors. The ban, which targets demersal fishing along a large portion of the state's west coast, has directly impacted small businesses, the restaurant industry, and the livelihoods of fishing families. This measure, framed by the government as essential for preserving fish stocks, has ignited strong opposition from those reliant on the fishing trade, leading to protests and calls for reconsidering the policy.
Impact on Coastal Communities and Small Businesses
Small beach towns, historically dependent on fishing tourism, are experiencing a notable downturn. Shane Younger, owner of Seasport Tackle Jurien Bay, reports a sharp decline in sales during what is usually his peak season, with other bait and ice suppliers facing similar financial blows. His business has already seen a 20 percent reduction in expected sales. This downturn has led to staff reductions and instances where businesses are being sold. The closure of commercial fishing in the West Coast Bioregion, and a halving of catch limits on the South Coast, directly curtails the supply of fresh fish.
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Green Head Caravan Park, usually bustling with fishing boats during this period, is experiencing a lull.
Tackle shops, bait suppliers, and ice providers are reporting substantial drops in revenue.
The peak season of December and January is seeing losses that are expected to continue.
Food Industry and Consumer Access
The fishing reforms have directly affected the availability and cost of popular fish species. Colin Cox, a restaurant industry veteran with 33 years of experience, states that premium fish like dhufish will be removed from menus, making fresh fish a rarity. Mr Mayfield, owner of Hooked on Middleton, known for dishes featuring Fresh Nannygai, now finds it challenging to source this fish and is forced to increase prices for his regular customers. The closure of commercial fishing along a 700-kilometer stretch of coastline from Kalbarri to Augusta has, according to commercial fishers and restaurant owners, led to an increase in the demand for imported seafood.
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The Pilbara trawl industry, which supplies 40 percent of the state's demersal fish, is now operating under new restrictions.
Dishes featuring popular demersal fish may disappear from menus.
Consumers may face fewer options for locally sourced fresh fish.
Emotional and Generational Toll on Fishers
The ban has inflicted a profound emotional and economic strain on fishing families, many of whom have operated for generations. Jeffrey Cooke, who has spent his life on his boat, the Tracey-Lea, saw his dreams of passing down the family trade end with the government's announcement of a permanent ban on commercial demersal fishing along the west coast. The West Australian Fishing Industry Council (WAFIC), through its chief executive Melissa Haslam, has advocated for the reinstatement of funding for support programs like Stay Afloat, recognizing its established reputation within the industry for assisting those affected.
Generational businesses are facing closure, threatening the future prospects of families.
The ban is described as having a significant "emotional toll" on the fishing community.
There are concerns about the long-term viability of family fishing traditions.
Government Justification and Public Opposition
The Western Australian government asserts that the fishing ban is a necessary measure to preserve fish stocks for future generations. Premier Roger Cook has defended the decision as one of making "tough decisions" for long-term sustainability. However, these justifications have been met with strong public dissent. Around 200 people gathered to protest the ban, questioning the validity of the government's data on fish populations. Event organiser Daniel Smith and Opposition leader Basil Zempilas have argued that the data used to justify the ban is outdated and that the government has had ample time to address fish stock numbers without resorting to such stringent measures.
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Protests have occurred, with participants challenging the government's scientific evidence.
Calls for the government to reconsider its approach are widespread among those affected.
The government maintains the ban is for ecological preservation.
Industry Calls for Transition and Alternative Species
While grappling with the immediate impacts, some within the food industry are exploring alternative options. WA food ambassador, a veteran chef, has highlighted the importance of educating the public and the restaurant sector about alternative fish species, such as sardines, herring, and salmon, which are not demersal. Businesses focused on these pelagic species are seen as a potential avenue for transition. This approach aims to help consumers and businesses adapt to the changing landscape of seafood availability in the wake of the new fishing rules.
Emphasis is placed on promoting pelagic species like herring and salmon.
Industry-led education is seen as crucial for a successful transition.
Chefs are exploring menu adjustments to incorporate alternative local seafood.
Sources Used
Article 1: Small beach towns struggle after WA's recreational fishing rules change
Article 2: Award-winning fish and chip shop feels the pinch after WA fishing bans
Article 3: Fishers say WA ban will bring an end to 'decent fish and chips'
Article 4: Fishing industry 'drowning' in emotional toll of state government ban
Article 5: Hundreds gather to protest fishing ban as premier defends 'tough decisions'
Article 6: Chef highlights alternative fish species ahead of demersal ban
