Have your say: Changes to marine, freshwater fishing regulations

The proposed changes, developed by Fisheries Queensland in consultation with key stakeholders, aim to protect vulnerable species, improve fisheries management, and support the long-term viability of the fishing industry.

Deputy Director-General Fisheries and Forestry Pauline Jacob said the proposed changes reflect the government's commitment to balancing environmental sustainability with the needs of the fishing industry and local communities.

"These proposed changes are designed to protect our unique marine and freshwater ecosystems while supporting the livelihoods of Queenslanders who depend on our fisheries and continue to enhance recreational fishing experiences," Ms Jacob said.

"We've worked closely with stakeholders, including industry groups, recreational fishers, local governments and conservation organisations, to develop these proposals. Now, we're seeking feedback from the broader community to ensure the final regulations reflect the needs and priorities of all Queenslanders."

Key proposed changes

Freshwater fisheries:

• Improved protections for endangered species such as the Mary River cod and Cooper Creek catfish.
• Expansion of the Stocked Impoundment Permit Scheme (SIPS) to include Ross River Dam and Atkinson Dam.
• Adjusted possession limit for silver perch in stocked impoundments to provide additional angler opportunities and support population recovery.
• Working with New South Wales Fisheries to harmonise and standardise fishing rules for Murray cod in the northern Murray-Darling basin.

Black jewfish:

• Introduction of an annual spawning closure for both commercial and recreational fishers from 1 November to 31 January to protect spawning stocks.
• Increased recreational in-possession and boat limits for black jewfish to allow improved access to the stock.
• Regulation of at-sea trunking for the commercial sector to improve commercial viability.

Crab fishery:

• Mandatory use of shark excluder devices on crab pots in waters upstream of Port Musgrave to protect the critically endangered speartooth shark.

Tropical rock lobster fishery:

• Extension of the fishing season by one month, changing the start of the closed season from 1 October to 1 November, to support industry viability and provide additional economic opportunities for regional communities.

Stakeholders, including recreational and commercial fishers, industry representatives and the general public, are encouraged to provide feedback through an online survey.

"Consultation is a vital part of the regulatory process," Ms Jacob said.

"We want to hear from all stakeholders to ensure these changes are practical, effective and supported by the community."

Feedback from the consultation process will be analysed and used to finalise the proposed regulatory amendments. If supported, the changes for tropical rock lobster and black jewfish are planned to be implemented by 30 September 2026, while freshwater fishery changes will follow in early 2027.

Supporting industry and communities

"These reforms are not just about protecting our fisheries, they're about supporting the communities and industries that rely on them," Ms Jacob said.

"By expanding the SIPS program, we're creating new opportunities for fish stocking and tourism in regional Queensland.

"Similarly, the proposed changes to the tropical rock lobster fishery will provide much-needed economic relief to regional and remote communities that have been impacted by global market challenges."

The Queensland Government remains committed to ensuring the sustainability of its fisheries while fostering economic growth and supporting local communities.

More information

Learn more and provide feedback via the DPI eHub platform.

Contact

Email media@dpi.qld.gov.au.