New Management Plan for Australia's Rock Lobster Fishery Finalised
7 October 2013, at 1:00am
AUSTRALIA - The five-year management plan for the Southern Zone Rock Lobster Fishery has been finalised, providing clear guidelines to ensure the ecologically sustainable development of the fishery.
South Australia's Rock Lobster Fishery is divided into two zones, with the Southern Zone Rock Lobster Fishery stretching from the River Murray Mouth to the Victorian border.
The fishery is a vital contributor to the Limestone Coast economy, producing almost 1250 tonne of rock lobster each year with a total production value of A$79.1 million, and employing 1017 full time employee positions.
Fisheries Minister Gail Gago said the plan would ensure the ongoing sustainability of the fishery.
"South Australia's clean marine waters are home to some of the most sought-after seafood in the world," Ms Gago said.
"Our Southern Rock Lobster in particular has a fabulous reputation among seafood lovers and garners a premium price on international markets, with SA the largest Australian supplier of rock lobster to the major export market of Hong Kong.
"The new management plan provides a clear policy framework for the management arrangements required to maintain the health and long-term sustainability of the fishery.
"It also sets out the shares of the rock lobster resource allocated to the commercial, recreational and Aboriginal traditional fishing sectors, providing access security to fishers and business stability for licence holders.
"Developed in consultation with industry, the robust harvest and management strategies outlined in the plan will ensure an ecologically sustainable outcome for the fishery and support the economic strength of this valuable industry."
The Management Plan for the South Australian Southern Zone Commercial Rock Lobster Fishery has been developed under the Fisheries Management Act 2007 with the guidance of the Fisheries Council of South Australia.
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