Fishers from across Australia’s Commonwealth fisheries have welcomed the Australian government’s announcement of a $20 million investment into modernising data capture, transformation, and integration across its Commonwealth-managed fisheries.
The Commonwealth Fisheries Association (CFA) and Seafood Industry Australia (SIA) have thanked the Minister for Agriculture David Littleproud, Assistant Minister to the Prime Minister and Cabinet Ben Morton MP, and the Assistant Minister for Fisheries Senator Jonno Duniam for their work on the delivery of this investment.
“This significant investment will ensure Australia’s Commonwealth managed fisheries maintain their standing as world leaders in fisheries management and sustainability,” says CFA Chair Dr George Kailis.
SIA CEO Veronica Papacosta says the E-Fish initiative and the E-Monitoring programs which have been announced will boost innovation and lower the compliance costs for hundreds of Commonwealth fishers.
“The streamlining of these processes will reduce red tape and regulatory burden for fishers, while allowing industry to remain at the forefront of the world’s best fishing practices,” she says.
Mr Kailis says investment in innovative data capture and handling technology is especially welcome.
“A world class, integrated data system will strengthen Australian seafood traceability and provenance credentials, with the potential to find new markets for our products,” he says.
“Importantly, this system will provide the Australian public with increased confidence around environmental and regulatory credentials of Commonwealth-managed fisheries.
“This investment into our industry and the Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA) reflects the cooperative approach between industry and government. Senator Duniam has been a strong supporter of our industry since his appointment as Assistant Minister, and this announcement is a reflection of that support.”
Ms Papacosta adds: “SIA would like to thank Minister Littleproud, Assistant Minister Morton, Assistant Minister Duniam and the entire Morrison government for their unwavering support of the Australian seafood industry and their ongoing commitment to maintain and advance Australia’s status as a world-leading seafood producer.”