Fisheries Minister Joe Francis has welcomed the latest Department of Fisheries scorecard on Western Australia’s aquatic resources.
The scorecard reinforces the State’s reputation for ecologically sustainable fisheries management.
Mr Francis said: "The assessment confirms that we are a global leader in fisheries management which is reflected through the adoption of independent third party certification, using the gold standard Marine Stewardship Council.”
"At a time when many fisheries around the world are over-exploited or depleted, WA has a 95% success rate in sustainably managing our fish resources.”
Recreational and commercial fishing/aquaculture are worth around $1.6bn annually in Western Australia.
The Minister confirmed WA's commitment to developing aquaculture opportunities to make the most of the State's environmental advantages.
"Investment-ready zones for aquaculture businesses will help grow that sector. The Kimberley Aquaculture Development Zone is already in place, development of a new Mid-West zone is well advanced and Liberal National Government funding has been announced for setting up another zone on the State's South Coast,” explained Mr Francis.
He added: "Our expanding aquaculture will help deliver Western Australia a new stream of export opportunities to build on the $570 million, the State already earns annually from our commercial fisheries and aquaculture products, including pearls."
The WA economy benefited from the contribution of more than 750,000 people who enjoy recreational fishing each year - another reason why good fisheries management was so important.
