Wednesday, 19 November 2025

 Ann-Marie HERMANS (South-Eastern Metropolitan) (18:16): (2148) My adjournment is directed to the Minister for Outdoor Recreation, and the action I seek is for the minister to acknowledge significant concerns that cannot be overlooked with the release of the Victorian Fisheries Authority annual report for 2024–25 and to reinstate our scientists and fisheries officers.

While the authority presents this report as a record of achievements and progress, and I acknowledge the hard work of its staff, the glaring concerns cannot be overlooked. Firstly, the report exposes ongoing failures in sustainable fishery management. Despite repeated warnings from environmental experts and community stakeholders, commercial and recreational fisheries remain under pressure from overfishing, declining stock levels and weak enforcement of regulations. The authority is struggling to meet sustainability targets, yet the report fails to outline clear, actionable strategies to address these shortfalls. The dismissal of key scientific professionals has only compounded these problems.

Secondly, the report acknowledges issues with compliance and enforcement. While new monitoring initiatives and patrols are mentioned, illegal fishing and noncompliance persist, particularly in regional areas. Staffing and resourcing appear insufficient to safeguard Victoria’s limited fisheries resources. Thirdly, there is a worrying lack of clarity regarding community engagement and stakeholder consultation. The report notes engagement activities, but feedback from recreational fishers, traditional owners and regional communities appears to have limited influence on decision-making. Effective fisheries management cannot succeed without meaningful participation from those who live, work and rely on these resources. The financial statements show rising operational costs, yet the report does not adequately explain how these funds are translating into measurable improvements in fishery outcomes or long-term sustainability. Victorians deserve transparency and accountability when public funds are being used to manage shared natural resources.

Finally, while the report highlights innovation and research and conservation programs, these remain piecemeal and reactive rather than part of a comprehensive, proactive strategy. The ongoing threats from climate change, habitat degradation and invasive species are acknowledged but not matched with strong forward-looking plans. The protection of Victoria’s fisheries is vital for environmental, cultural and economic reasons. Yet this report shows that the authority is not fully meeting its obligations to ensure sustainable, fair and well managed fisheries for all Victorians. I therefore call on the minister to take immediate steps to strengthen oversight, transparency and sustainability measures within the Victorian Fisheries Authority and to reinstate the relevant scientific experts whose knowledge is essential to securing Victoria’s aquatic resources for future generations.