BIA calls for consultive group in South Australia

BIA calls for consultive group in SA © Boating Industry Association

The BIA today called for the South Australia Government to form a SA Marine Consultative Group of key stakeholders for the duration of the fishing restrictions announced last week.

BIA believes such a Group would help ensure appropriate sharing of relevant data on the fishery, fishery monitoring updates, stakeholder updates/ reports and consultation on the wider range of activities by Government and stakeholders in support of the fishery and boating.

The SA Government announced the fishing restrictions on 23 October with little to-no warning, citing its own data on fish stock assessments and the ongoing algal bloom issue, without showing appropriate evidence and justification for the decisions made.

This announcement coincided with the SA Boat & Fishing Show held over 24-26 October 2025 where BIA was an exhibitor and supporting sponsor. The news of emergency restrictions caused alarm at the show amongst boating exhibitors and public with a wide variety of responses including dismay at the restrictions, confusion as to the reasons and misunderstanding about boating rules in SA.

BIA is concerned there was insufficient consultation on plans to implement the restrictions and its impacts on boat-based fishing. That is why it is recommending a Marine Consultative Group.

BIA however did welcome the SA Government's support package within its recovery plan that contained the following:

• Financial relief for businesses: Support of $50,000 for each affected tackle shop and reliant industry. Grants of up to $20,000 are also available for affected small businesses, with commercial fishing licence fee relief continuing;

• Boating cost reductions: The government will halve the cost of boat and trailer registration for 12 months, starting 1 December. This is coupled with free access to government-owned boat ramps for 12 months and the removal of vehicle access fees for coastal national parks;?

• Sector investment: $800,000 as recreational fishing spend plus $300,000 for the AFTA Let's Fish SA campaign. Crucially, $7 million will be invested in vulnerable marine species and saltwater fish restocking programs.?

The SA Marine Consultative Group should be made up of appropriate Government bodies together with key stakeholders representing fishing, boating and marine tourism.