The Department of Natural Resources and Environment Tasmania (NRE Tas) is creating a Commercial Sea Fisheries Strategy (the Strategy) to guide the future of Tasmania’s commercial sea fishing industry—and we need your help.
Your input will help shape the Strategy, which will guide Government policies and actions relating to the commercial fishing industry over the next ten years. Once consultation is complete, we’ll release the draft Strategy for further feedback before it's finalised.
Get involved
With help from independent consultants, Fishwell Pty Ltd, you can provide input on the Strategy through:
We’re seeking input from all sectors of the commercial fishing industry as we develop this Strategy, including industry bodies, commercial fishers, seafood processors, and Aboriginal community representatives. We’re also working closely with Seafood Industry Tasmania (SIT), who have long supported the development of a Tasmanian commercial fishing strategy.
Complete an online survey:
You can fill out a short online survey to provide feedback about issues and priorities for the industry. The survey
closes 5 May, and the results will be used to develop the
strategy and guide workshops.
If you wish to provide input and are not comfortable completing the survey, please contact:
Paul McShane at Fishwell directly via email: paul@fishwell.com.au or mobile: 0418 132 885.
Join in-person workshops:
Four workshops will be held from 13-16 May 2025, where you will have the opportunity to provide more detailed input into the Strategy. Further targeted consultations will occur during April and May, including remote locations such as King and Flinders Islands.
If you would like to attend a workshop, please RSVP at least 48 hours before, either online, or contact Jakob Fries via email: jakob.fries@nre.tas.gov.au or mobile: 0457 006 821.
| Where | When | Venue |
Smithton
Book
| 13 May
10am-2pm | Tall Timbers, Brittons Room, 5/15 Scotchtown Rd, Smithton |
Devonport
Book
| 14 May
10am-2pm | Devonport Library, Melrose 1 and 2, Paranaple Centre, 137 Rooke St, Devonport |
St Helens
Book
| 15 May
10am-2pm | Panorama Hotel, Robert Burns Room, 1 Quail St, St Helens TAS 7216
|
Hobart
Book
| 16 May
10am-2pm
| Lands Building, 134 Macquarie St, Hobart
(Cape Barren Room)
|
Why we're developing the Strategy
Tasmania’s commercial fishing industry plays a key role in the State’s economy and community. However, the industry faces challenges and opportunities that require careful planning for a sustainable future.
The Strategy will:
- Build a strong, sustainable, and profitable wild-caught seafood industry that benefits Tasmanians.
- Clearly outline the Government’s vision for a resilient wild-caught fishing sector and the steps to achieve it.
- Encourage innovation and preserve healthy marine ecosystems for future generations.
Key contacts
Jakob Fries – Fisheries Manager, NRE Tas
Contact to RSVP for workshops or for further information about Strategy development.
Email: jakob.fries@nre.tas.gov.au
Mobile: 0457 006 821
Paul McShane – Fishwell Engagement Consultant
Contact to provide specific consultation feedback.
Email: paul@fishwell.com.au
Mobile: 0418 132 885
Julian Harrington – Seafood Industry Tasmania (SIT) Chief Executive Officer
Contact to discuss industry representation.
Email:: chiefexecutive@sit.org.au
Mobile: 0407 242 933