Victoria's leading conservation, recreational and commercial fishing organisations have united to oppose the State Government's plan to axe fisheries officers. They are asking for an immediate reconsideration, warning that if they go ahead, the cuts pose significant threats to marine health, sustainable fish stocks and public safety on Victorian waters.
The Victorian National Parks Association (VNPA), Victorian Recreational Fishing Peak Body (VRFish), Seafood Industry Victoria and the Abalone Council Victoria anticipate devastating consequences if enforcement officers are reduced by two-thirds in areas like Port Phillip Bay and replaced with 'engagement officers'.
"It's unprecedented for our groups to come together, but this alliance demonstrates the seriousness of the situation," said VNPA Nature Conservation Campaigner Shannon Hurley.
"We all agree that slashing frontline fisheries officers is a big mistake. When conservation groups and fishing interests stand together on an issue, the government should take notice".
"There is already a non-compliance rate of more than half in marine protected areas according to a statement released by the Community and Public Sector Union. If we cut the number of officers, people who fish illegally will likely feel even more confident breaking the laws without consequences," Ms Hurley said
Ben Scullin, executive officer from the peak body for Victorian recreational fishers, VRFish agrees, stating: "Further reducing fisheries enforcement just undermines sustainable fishing practices and will ultimately harm the experiences of over one million recreational fishers".
Representatives from the seafood sector have also voiced concerns. Seafood Industry Victoria and Abalone Council Victoria say reduced oversight of marine waters would likely result in increased illegal fishing and sales of seafood by parties without commercial licences.
The cuts to fisheries officers follow significant reductions across other nature protection agencies. Parks Victoria faces $95 million in budget cuts and an estimated 100 job losses, while 33 staff have been cut from the Officer of the Conservation Regulator.
"So many people depend on the health of our marine landscapes. You can't be serious about looking after it if you're cutting the frontline officers who work hard every day to protect it", Ms Hurley said.
