Why the Forum Matters Yesterday in Perth, the Fisheries Minister for Western Australia, Jackie Jarvis, convened a high-level forum—titled the “Fishing Futures Forum” (sometimes referred to in media as a demersal science & management forum) — to address the urgent condition of demersal scale fish stocks in WA.
Key context related to:
- Latest stock-assessments by the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) show several iconic demersal species (for example, WA dhufish, pink snapper, red emperor) are at “severe risk” or “high risk” from continued fishing pressure.
- The forum brought together recreational fishers, commercial fishers, charter operators, scientists, small businesses and the broader seafood/angling community to chart a way forward (note NO consumers!)
- The government indicated that “all management options are on the table” including more restrictive measures for demersal fishing.
For seafood consumers, this matters significantly because the health of demersal fish stocks underpins:
- The availability of premium seafood species in markets (which many consumers purchase and cherish)
- The long-term sustainability of fishing industries (commercial, charter) and supply chains
- The recreational fishing experience that drives broader demand and consumer engagement
Main Outcomes & Implications from the Forum and what they mean for seafood consumers:
1. Science-led urgency: stocks in trouble The forum confirmed that the data indicates serious depletion of key demersal species:
- The DPIRD indicates spawning biomass (the breeding component) of species such as dhufish and red emperor is significantly below safe reference levels.
- In the Pilbara region, for example, red emperor spawning biomass estimated ~ 82 % depleted.
- The message: Without additional management action, some stocks may take decades to recover. Implication for consumers: The species you may value (such as dhufish, snapper) are under pressure. That means availability might decline, catch limits may tighten, and prices will rise. Sustainable consumption now is more important than ever - we can all help!.
2. Management changes likely During the forum, Minister Jarvis and DPIRD made it clear that tougher restrictions are under consideration, such as:
- Mandatory reporting of recreational catches: concerns that recreational sector data is incomplete. (If you are not measuring you cannot manage...)
- Temporary closures or catch reductions in certain high-risk areas or for high-risk species.
- Encouragement to “switch your fish” (i.e., consume less-vulnerable species) while stocks recover. Implication for consumers: When change comes, you may see regulatory changes that affect what is available in the market (e.g., fewer fish landed, higher retail prices, perhaps seasonal restraint). Also, consumers may be encouraged to choose alternative species to relieve pressure on the most vulnerable stocks.
3. Stakeholder collaboration The forum emphasised that the solution must involve all sectors:
- Commercial, recreational, charter, scientists, seafood businesses and consumers (yet consumers were not invited!). Joint statements by key industry bodies emphasised this is a shared responsibility.
- Implication for consumers: Your role matters. Responsible consumer choices, knowing the source of your seafood, and supporting sustainable fishing practices contribute meaningfully. Consumer demand influences what commercial fisheries supply.
4. Timeframe and next steps The government indicated that outcomes from the forum will feed into management decisions to be made by end of 2025. Implication for consumers:
There may be significant announcements coming in the next few months. Stay informed, as the seafood products you buy may change (in availability, type, regulation).
Recommendations for Seafood Consumers by your Association To align with these developments and ensure your seafood choices remain both enjoyable, affordable and sustainable, here are some practical steps:
- Ask questions about source: When purchasing any fish, check where and how the fish were caught. Ask if they are from a region under pressure?
- Be open to alternatives: If dhufish or snapper stocks are under constraint, consider other sustainably managed species that are less pressured.
- Support sustainable practices: Buying from suppliers who follow traceability, best-practice fishing, and responsible quotas helps support long-term supply.
- Stay informed: Follow updates from DPIRD and the SCA so you know when changes occur.
- Promote awareness: As seafood consumers, your voice can help highlight the importance of sustainable demersal fisheries. Share the message: “Healthy fish stocks = healthy seafood availability.”
- Final Word The forum in Perth was a pivotal moment as for the first time in recent memory, the depth of the risk to WA’s demersal scale fish was laid bare and commitments to action made.
For seafood consumers, this isn’t just a regulatory story—it’s about the future of what ends up on your plate. By choosing wisely now, supporting sustainable fishers, and staying engaged, we can help ensure that future generations will still enjoy the high-quality demersal species that WA is famous for.
The Seafood Consumers Association will continue to monitor this issue closely and keep you updated on developments. In the meantime, when you next enjoy a line caught Dhufish or Snapper, take a moment to appreciate both its premium quality and the delicate balance that allows such seafood to remain available.
