Media release from Assistant Minister for Agriculture and Water Resources Anne Ruston
The third Australian Fisheries Ministers’ meeting, chaired by Assistant Minister for Agriculture and Water
Resources, Anne Ruston, was held in Sydney today to discuss a range of significant national fisheries management issues.
Minister Ruston said the meeting allowed for all jurisdictions to have specific discussions around priority issues for Australia’s fisheries and aquaculture industry.
Minister Ruston noted that it was timely that the meeting was held on Sustainable Seafood Day.
The meeting focused on biosecurity discussions around White Spot disease and the National Carp Control Plan, reducing regulatory burden for industry through improved cooperation between jurisdictions, evolving trade requirements for Australian seafood exports and recreational fishing.
“Bringing fisheries ministers and senior officials together will allow us to identify opportunities to work together to keep the industry profitable and efficient,” Minister Ruston said.
“The management of our commonwealth fisheries is based on robust science, so consumers can continue to enjoy Australian seafood from our sustainably managed fisheries.
“The value of Australia’s fisheries and aquaculture production rose by $300 million to $2.8 billion in 2014-15.
“Australia is internationally renowned as a supplier of safe, environmentally sustainable, high-quality seafood. It is pleasing to see it performing strongly. Together we’re working to keep it that way.
“I look forward to continuing these discussions with my state and territory colleagues to support the industry and our fishing communities into the future.”