East coast inshore fishery working group

This working group provides operational advice on the management of fishing of the east coast inshore fin fish fishery.

• 10-11 January 2018

  The east coast inshore fishery working group met for the first time in Brisbane on 10 and 11 January.

  The east coast inshore fishery working group will provide advice on the operational aspects of managing Queensland’s east coast inshore fishery and the development of a harvest strategy, consistent with the Sustainable Fisheries Strategy. The working group noted that the hammerhead working group would conclude operating and shark matters would be considered as part of this working group (with Gulf shark issues to be considered separately).

  The working group talked about their aspirations for the fishery and what they wanted to achieve through the working group. Members agreed that improvement was needed in management of the fishery and it was important that all sectors be part of the solution.  All members agreed that there was a need for simpler rules and greater certainty to ensure the future of the fishery. The working group acknowledged that the inshore fishery productivity is heavily affected by environmental factors like river flow and coastal habitat, which have been heavily modified.

  The working group was provided with an overview of the Sustainable Fisheries Strategy 2017-2027 (the Strategy). The members discussed the key policy objectives and how their input will be used to shape the future management of the east coast inshore fishery.

  The working group discussed the requirement for vessel tracking on net boats and the recently released policy and guideline. Positive feedback from commercial fishers currently trialling the systems was noted, although concerns with information privacy and ongoing costs were raised by members. The commercial sector representatives noted that most industry members are comfortable with vessel tracking as a tool, but wanted to also see improved data and information on the recreational catch to complement this. The recreational fishing representatives supported requiring vessel tracking for repeat recreational offenders. The working group agreed that vessel tracking would provide valuable information and support better compliance, but suggested consideration needed to be given to government paying for the data/polling costs and industry paying for the units, to reduce the ongoing costs to industry. Some members also questioned whether the units should be hardwired in, but others agreed that flexibility is needed, particularly with people working in multiple boats across fisheries.

  Fisheries Queensland provided the working group with an overview of the current status of the fishery. The working group noted that the number of commercial net licences has reduced significantly over the last 10 years, to the point that there are now less than 200 active N1 and N2 licences. It was acknowledged that there aren’t any significant sustainability concerns about the target species (e.g. barramundi, threadfin, mackerels, whiting, mullet etc.), noting concerns about potential for localised depletion for some stocks (e.g. threadfin, grunter) which require further investigation. The working group felt one of the most important issues was the need to improve selectivity of the fishery to reduce interactions with protected species and minimise bycatch.

  Fisheries Queensland also provided information on the Monitoring and Research Plan, which outlines where the initial investment in monitoring and data under the Strategy will be focused. The addition of more frequent stock assessment modelling of key species was welcomed by the working group, particularly in the face of introducing a harvest strategy and biomass targets. The working group identified the following information gaps that should be a priority to fill:

  • More detailed recreational catch and effort data
  • Research on the dynamics of spotted mackerel (e.g. impacts of boat traffic on behaviour)
  • Better data on species of conservation interest, including improved reporting and impacts of interactions on populations
  • King threadfin biology and stock structure
  • Better validation of logbook data
  • Better information on total mortality, including estimates of discards and fate across sectors (including shark depredation, barotrauma etc).

  The working group welcomed the additional investment, but felt longer term further funding will be required to fill all the information gaps and that further work is needed to fully cost a program.

  The working group discussed the Queensland Harvest Strategy Policy and Guideline. The members noted that a harvest strategy would provide more certainty by outlining predetermined management actions based on agreed indicators for fishery performance. Fisheries Queensland will assist the working group with developing the harvest strategies and will undertake consultation with broader fishery stakeholders as development progresses. The working group noted that a range of indicators should be used as part of the harvest strategy (e.g. biomass where available, commercial and recreational catch rates, length and age, environment factors).

  The working group members discussed current issues in the east coast inshore fisheries. This included:

  • Ecological issues: protected species interactions, sustainability of target/byproduct species, habitat, black-marketing/compliance issues, improved gear technology.
  • Economic issues: maintaining viable commercial businesses, certainty and flexibility, regulatory burden, improving the value of recreational and charter businesses.
  • Social issues: conflict, access to local seafood, public perceptions; complexity of rules, operating a fishery in the GBRWHA and other marine parks, recreational fishing satisfaction.

  To start the harvest strategy process, the working group was asked to identify key fishery objectives to set out the direction and aspirations for the fishery. The following draft objectives were recommended by the working group to:

  • Ensure sustainability: ensure sustainability of target and byproduct species; set appropriate biomass targets; demonstrate no unacceptable risk to populations of protected species from the fishery; minimise localised depletion; rehabilitate fisheries habitat; maintain spawning aggregations; encourage innovation in gear technology to promote greater selectivity and reduce protected species interactions; maintain world heritage values.
  • Enhance economic performance: high catch rates commercially; high return on investment; move to maximum economic yield (MEY); excess capacity minimised; no nett loss of boat and tackle stores; reduce waste and maximise value.
  • Maximise social outcomes: increase recreational satisfaction; minimised conflicts; maintain diverse access to local inshore seafood; improved perception and understanding of fishery by public; presence of large fish.
  • Enhance management performance: reduce complexity of rules; flexible and cost effective management system; better data and regular stock assessments; manage to the appropriate stock or regional level; flexible closures; improved research.

  The working group was asked to identify management units which will define the scope of the harvest strategy, but felt that a decision was needed on reform options first. In the interim, the focus was on managing at the stock or species level, but some sort of regionalisation was expected.

  The working group discussed the range of management options, noting that the Strategy preferences quota where possible. The group noted the pros and cons of a range of options and recommended that Fisheries Queensland further analyse the following options for consideration and consultation with the wider industry

  • Option 1: Individual Transferable Quotas: TACCs for key species or groups of multiple species, allocated to individual fishers. Pros: Greater certainty, ability to remove input controls, simpler to enforce, have some TACCs already that can be built upon, no race to fish, allows clearer catch shares with recreational sector. Cons: May limit flexibility, questions around how to allocate quota, potential waste when quota is reached on some species, potential for consolidation of quota.
  • Option 1a: Total Allowable Commercial Catches with regional triggers: TACCs for all major species but without an individual allocation. Pros: More flexibility, no allocation, some TACCs already. Cons: Race to fish, not as much security of access.
  • Option 2: Individual Transferable Effort Units: Total allowable effort (e.g. days, net length and soak time etc.) allocated to individuals. Pros: Reduces effort/nets in water so reduces risks to protected species, species flexibility, less waste, vessel tracking to deduct days, can adjust up/down. Cons: Have to maintain input controls, less gear flexibility, not constraining the catch itself, difficult to manage species in trouble without reducing effort overall, more complex monitoring, can’t consider recreational catch shares.

  The working group had a general preference towards option 1, but there was not a consensus position particularly from some commercial representatives. The working group agreed to look in more detail about which may work best and talk further with stakeholders about the options. This included looking at costs, practicality, how it will work with other fisheries (e.g. crab).

  Management reform options for the recreational sector was also discussed, noting that reforms would be run concurrently across the fishery. Reform options included reviewing size and possession limits to simplify them and reduce them where necessary. Some members suggested exploring a tiered approach which allowed most fishers a small limit, but requiring those who wish to take a higher limit a permit or tag or something similar. Some members had concerns about this approach.

  The working group discussed in some detail the options for addressing issues around protected species and agreed the following should be considered:

  Reducing species risk:

  • Undertake ecological risk assessment as a priority.
  • Review of minimum and maximum size limits to protect large fecund species and ensure individuals reach sexual maturity.
  • Investigate a tagging program for critical protected species populations, such as the snubfin dolphin, with information to be available in real time on an app available to fishers.
  • Consider additional training, codes of practice.
  • Further work on shark species identification to identify those which are high risk and should be protected, while allowing for low risk to potentially be harvested.
  • Innovative use of technology (e.g. digital observers/cameras) to validate logbook information and interactions.

  Reducing gear risk:

  • Innovative gear technology e.g. bycatch reduction devices, use of underwater acoustic devices, net strength and net sizes. Further research into what innovations have been trialled or successful in the past.
  • Consider alternative netting practices such as ring netting, tunnel netting or fish traps for use in other regions provided it delivers a nett benefit to protected species.
  • Improving practices (e.g. attendance, soak times, mentoring/training new entrants).

  Spatial risk:

  • Investigate a mechanism to allow for flexible closures to improve protection of protected species, spawning aggregation sites and critical populations.
  • Based on ERA, review existing closures to determine where the best nett benefit to protected species can be gained through trade-offs at fine scales (note: this would not include reviewing marine park zones).

  The working group was concluded with a discussion around the steps that need to be taken for transitioning the east coast inshore fishery to a harvest strategy framework.

  A further working group meeting was scheduled for March to refine the objectives, units and reform options.

  Fisheries Queensland will be seeking the views of all stakeholders throughout the process, including face to face meetings and surveys about reform options.

  The East coast inshore Working Group members are: Fisheries Queensland (Chair – Claire Andersen), commercial fishing (Ben Gilliland, Mark Ahern, Nathan Rynn, Margaret Stevensen and Allan Bobbermen), recreational fishing (Steve Morgan, John Bennett and Nathan Johnston), seafood marketing (Matthew Vujica), conservation (Nick Heath – interim member while expression of interest is undertaken), research (David Welch) and Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (Thomas Hatley).

• 19 February 2018

  The second meeting of the east coast inshore working group was held by teleconference on 19 February 2018. The purpose of the meeting was to check in on some of the proposed fishery objectives, management units and reform options that would be included in a discussion paper for broader stakeholder feedback. A draft of the discussion paper would be provided at the next face to face meeting on 7 March 2018.

  Members requested clarification of a statement recorded in the previous communique, which suggested that there aren’t any significant sustainability concerns about target species (e.g. barramundi, threadfin, mackerels, whiting, mullet etc.) for the east coast inshore fishery. Some members felt there are species where not enough information is available, including species specific data for shark, to determine whether or not there is a sustainability concern and that while the main target species are sustainable, many species remain ‘undefined’. Members felt that this should be considered in the management reform decision-making process.

  The working group discussed a set of draft objectives to guide the development and implementation of harvest strategies for the east coast inshore fishery. The objectives were based on those identified by members at the first east coast inshore working group meeting, while also taking into consideration relevant strategic objectives outlined through the Sustainable Fisheries Strategy 2017-2027 (the Strategy) and consistency with objectives identified for other fisheries. Working group members noted the high number of draft objectives, which capture the complexity and high number of stakeholders. Working group members discussed the draft objectives and recommended that further amendments were required prior to them being released for consultation. Members noted that these initial objectives should remain high-level, with more specific operational objectives to be defined as harvest strategies are developed.

  Two of the objectives identified in the first meeting (rehabilitate fisheries habitat; flexibility in state marine park zoning plans) were unable to be linked to the broader objectives identified under the Strategy. Despite their importance to fishery productivity and management, it was noted that these areas are outside of the Department’s control and the scope of this working group. Members expressed an interest in engaging with other agencies responsible for these areas to ensure fisheries habitat is protected and fishing perspectives are considered by other agencies.

  Working group members discussed possible reform options for the east coast inshore fishery, including possible management units. There was general agreement that the fishery should be split up to better manage at the regional level.  The initial discussion suggested a preference towards two offshore management units and 4-6 inshore management units:

  • Offshore north – covers shark, grey mackerel, smaller mackerels
  • Offshore south (boundary Baffle Creek) – covers shark, grey mackerel, smaller mackerels
  • Inshore Far North – barramundi, threadfin, queenfish
  • Inshore North – barramundi, threadfin, queenfish
  • Inshore Central – barramundi, threadfin, queenfish
  • Inshore Hervey Bay – barramundi, threadfin, bream, whiting, flathead, mullet
  • Inshore South / Moreton Bay - bream, whiting, flathead, mullet, tailor, mulloway

  The working group undertook to consider the details of the proposed management units further, particularly the boundaries of the areas based on the stock structure (eg 5 barramundi stocks).

  Additional feedback will be provided by members before the next meeting and will be used by Fisheries Queensland to refine draft management units prior to the March working group, where members will consider a final draft of management units.

  The management reform options discussed at the first working group meeting were evaluated to ensure they met the objectives of the Strategy and were suitable for the east coast inshore fishery. Fisheries Queensland provided an updated overview of management reform options to be outlined in the discussion paper, including alternatives identified out-of-session.

  Management reform options aimed to improve management of target species, and also improve the selectivity of the fishery and reduce bycatch and protected species interactions. Options for consideration included:

  • Individual Transferable Quotas (ITQs)
  • Total Allowable Catches with regional triggers (Regional TACCs)
  • Individual Transferable Effort Units (ITEs) for commercial fishers
  • Review of size limits (all sectors) and adjustment of recreational possession limits in line with a harvest strategy
  • Gear technology
  • Closures

  Members provided a range of feedback across all reform options, with a general consensus that the preferred option should allow for more efficient fishing which would in turn reduce the risk of SOCI and protected species interactions. The feedback will be adopted by Fisheries Queensland and presented to the working group in a discussion paper at the March meeting for endorsement, prior to broader consultation. It was noted that no decisions have been made and further feedback from all stakeholders will be critical.

  The next working group meeting is scheduled for the 6 and 7 March 2017 to be held jointly with the Sustainable Fisheries Expert Panel. This meeting will aim to endorse a package for initial engagement on management units and reform options for the fishery.

  The East Coast Inshore Working Group members are: Fisheries Queensland (Chair – Claire Andersen), commercial fishing (Ben Gilliland, Mark Ahern, Nathan Rynn, Margaret Stevensen and Allan Bobbermen), recreational fishing (Steve Morgan, John Bennett and Nathan Johnston), seafood marketing (Matthew Vujica), conservation (Nick Heath), research (David Welch) and Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (Thomas Hatley).

• 6-7 March 2018

  The third meeting of the east coast inshore working group was held in Brisbane over 6-7 March 2018 and included a joint session with the Sustainable Fisheries Expert Panel. The purpose of this meeting was to endorse a package for initial engagement on management regions and reform options for the fishery. The engagement package is to be distributed at the end of March for extensive consultation.

  Working group members were provided an update on the status of the vessel tracking trial. The members noted the release of the vessel tracking policy and guidelines and discussed feedback received from stakeholders as part of public consultation, which ended on 23 February. Key concerns from consultation were to do with cost, privacy and malfunction of units. Fisheries Queensland advised they are engaging external consultants to conduct an audit of the safeguards around protecting fishers’ private location data to ensure appropriate checks and balances are in place and to identify any further improvements. Some working group members were interested in the functionality of units, as to be easily-shared across boats with the same boat mark (i.e. for when an operator has a crabbing boat and a netting boat with the same boat mark). This will be further considered by Fisheries Queensland while reviewing the policy and guidelines.

  A monitoring and research update was presented to the group. Members felt that additional monitoring was required on shark predation, discards, interbreeding between stocked impoundment and wild barramundi, better recreational catch data (e.g. through citizen science). Members noted stock assessments have been carried out for a number of key inshore fish species, including sea mullet (2004), spotted mackerel (2005), grey mackerel (2013), sharks (2014) and tailor (2004, 2017). Additional stock assessments are currently underway for sea mullet, spotted mackerel, sand whiting, yellowfin bream and dusky flathead. Members agreed that where biomass estimates are not available a list of the proxies for each species, using data such as size structure, age structure or catch rates, should be listed to assist with developing harvest strategies.  As part of the updates to the Monitoring and Research Plan, consideration should be given to ensuring a cost-effective program that can be delivered long term.

  Fisheries Queensland provided information on the additional investment in social and economic monitoring under the Sustainable Fisheries Strategy. Working group members noted that a workshop with experts had been held to identify social and economic indicators and the requirements to roll out a successful monitoring program. Potential indicators included total employment from commercial and recreational fishing sectors; willingness to adapt; and the mental health and well-being of commercial fishers. The working group identified some indicators that would be of value to stakeholders. This included: price of fish; jobs that each sector supports; perceptions of each sector, the sources of those perceptions and whether they are improving; the value of fish and protected species to tourism; how much product goes toward the local seafood market; the number of fisheries offences; and number of complaints/conflicts. Fisheries Queensland will be engaging working group members and broader stakeholders out-of-session for their input when identifying priority indicators. Stakeholders supported the roll out of the economic and social monitoring and indicated they would be willing to contribute as it would help identify the importance of the different fishing sectors and any potential impacts from changes (e.g. to jobs). The working group also felt that more work was needed to share stories about commercial fishers and operations and dispel myths and misconceptions.  The group also felt that country of origin labelling at restaurants was important but recognised it was outside Fisheries Queensland’s control.

  The working group discussed the draft discussion paper on reforms options that included proposed management regions and reform options, noting that it is a very complex fishery. Members discussed the potential management regions and agreed they should primarily be based on the boundaries of the fish stocks (eg barramundi, threadfin, mullet, mackerels), but also take into account the number of licences and catch in each region and ensure sensible boundaries (eg not cutting a port in two) for practicality.  The working group proposed a number of changes and additions to the discussion paper, including simplifying some of the language. The working group also provided advice on the questions that should be asked in a survey to be put to stakeholders.

  This feedback will be considered by Fisheries Queensland and amended prior to release of the engagement package. It was noted that no decisions have been made and that the discussion paper is simply the basis for the initial round of engagement. Fisheries Queensland will be seeking the views of all stakeholders through face-to-face consultation, expected to take place throughout April-May. Feedback from the discussion paper will be presented to the working group to provide advice on a preferred reform option and develop a draft implementation plan, including allocation if relevant, for review by the Sustainable Fisheries Expert Panel in July 2018.

  The working group discussed options for allocation if quota or effort units are established for the fishery.  Members agreed that if this were to be the case, catch history should be used to allocate the total allowable commercial catch and that lessons should be learned from past processes.  Members agreed that there should be no further reduction in licence numbers and allocations should be based on existing TACs and recent catch levels, given the reduction in licences over the years and the fact that most target species are sustainable.  Not all members of the working group felt comfortable discussing allocation models noting issues arising from past allocations in other fisheries.  Members also wanted to see the latest information from the 2018 recreational fishing survey to understand the catch shares across sectors.

  Fisheries Queensland presented an update on the status of Ecological Risk Assessments, noting that draft ERA guidelines were being reviewed by the Expert Panel and expected to be released later this year. Working group members noted that the guidelines took a species-specific approach to ERAs, rather than being fishery-specific. The working group will have a significant role in the development of the ERAs including in identifying priority species, reviewing draft risk assessments and providing feedback for consideration by both Fisheries Queensland and the Sustainable Fisheries Expert Panel.

  The working group agreed to discuss snubfin dolphin at the next meeting, when Dr Col Limpus would attend and discuss his project currently underway around tagging and citizen science.

  A further working group meeting was scheduled for June to consider the feedback from consultation and provide advice on the preferred management options.

  The East coast inshore Working Group members are: Fisheries Queensland (Chair – Claire Andersen), commercial fishing (Ben Gilliland, Mark Ahern, Nathan Rynn, Margaret Stevensen and Allan Bobbermen), recreational fishing (Steve Morgan, John Bennett and Nathan Johnston), seafood marketing (Matthew Vujica), conservation (Nick Heath), research (David Welch) and Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (Thomas Hatley).

• 12-13 June 2018

  The fourth meeting of the east coast inshore working group was held in Brisbane over 12-13 June 2018. The purpose of this meeting was to discuss consultation feedback on the east coast inshore fishery reform and to recommend a management package for further analysis.

  The meeting was preceded by a visit to the Supafin seafood processing facility that processed mullet. Members were impressed with the facility and the fact that every part of the mullet was used, including the roe, fillets, frames and other parts. The working group also visited two tunnel net operations in Moreton Bay and saw how selective the operation could be. The working group was interested in whether it might be practical in other areas and some of the challenges that may be associated with trialling it outside of the traditional fishery area.

  Fisheries Queensland provided an update on the implementation of the Sustainable Fisheries Strategy 2017-2027.

  Results of the consultation on the discussion paper were presented. This included the results of the online survey, face to face meetings, social media polls and email responses. They noted that the level of engagement in the discussion paper was disappointing and that further work is still needed to better engage and educate stakeholders in the reform process.

  Working group members were shown consultation feedback on the east coast inshore fishery reform and Act amendments. Members noted there was general support for the proposed Act amendments including more than 90% agreeing enforcement powers of fisheries inspectors and penalties to address serious fisheries offences should be strengthened. A report compiling the results of the survey will be made publicly available in coming months.

  A commercial rock lobster fisher from Victoria attended the meeting and presented on his experience in travelling around the world and visiting other fisheries, including the British Columbia Groundfish Fishery which had some parallels and learnings for the east coast inshore fishery.  He noted that the successes in other fisheries often came from clear ownership of fishing rights, 100% monitoring, clear accountability and auditing. He also noted that working together across sectors to build consensus on the fishery objectives and reforms was critical to establish and maintain a sustainable and defensible fishing industry.

  Department of Environment and Science staff presented on a project underway to try and satellite tag snubfin and humpback dolphins. The working group noted the challenges in the project and discussed some of the information needs for the inshore fishery to minimise interactions with these species from all sectors through continually improving practices.

  Fishery objectives

  The working group noted there was generally good support for fishery objectives. Feedback received through public consultation included minor improvements to wording; questions about biomass targets and estimates; and the recommendation to include or refine an additional objective on habitat modification and agreed to include an additional objective based around habitat protection and rehabilitation. The working group agreed to refine fishery objectives out of session, taking into account the feedback provided throughout public consultation. The final fishery objectives will be endorsed by the working group at the next meeting.

  Management Units

  Members noted that there was general support for splitting the fishery into regions, as long as there was still flexibility for commercial fishers to move between regions. The working group generally agreed to maintain the 6 proposed regions and boundaries that were in the discussion paper, but that more work was needed to explain the purpose, which was to manage to the stock level and also confirm specific boundaries. The working group agreed that the important principles for setting boundaries should include:

  • ensure boundaries align with logbook gridlines;
  • allow commercial fishers to maintain business flexibility;
  • based around biological stocks;
  • reduce social conflict where possible;
  • avoid boundary line through major population centres.

  The working group agreed the six regions were suitable for setting regional catch limits, while still allowing for more specific management rules to be trialled for specific areas within a region moving forward (eg Moreton Bay and other areas)

  Biomass Estimates and Proxies

  The working group was provided with a presentation on the range of indicators that could be used for harvest strategies, ranging from catch data, to standardised catch rates, to simple off the shelf models, to more complex stock assessment models. The working group was impressed by a prototype of a new dashboard tool for data visualisation which clearly and succinctly shows a range of catch and effort data across Queensland including commercial and recreational data, as well as length and age information. Members agreed good data are  a key requirement in improving modelling confidence and welcomed electronic logbooks, improved data validation and compliance. The working group suggested that the Illegal Unreported Unregulated catch estimates should be included in modelling

  Management Options

  Members reviewed feedback from public consultation to assist in narrowing down management options which may be considered for further analysis by Fisheries Queensland. The working group agreed to progress  with further investigation of Total Allowable Commercial Catch (TACCs) and Individual Transferable Quotas (ITQs), given the low level of support for Individual Transferable Effort units (ITEs) during consultation and its inability to meet management objectives to manage catch. It was noted that GBRMPA was not in favour of this and support ITE as a management system allowing for protected species to be protected by directly managing the amount of time nets are left in waters and the challenges in a variable multi species fishery.

  The working group considered a tiered-approach to manage the commercial catch of target species:

  1. ITQ
  2. TACC
  3. Triggers in harvest strategy

  As a minimum members supported triggers in the harvest strategy and TACCs to manage commercial catch. Triggers would be in place for low volume, low risk species which would be closely monitored and move to TACC management if triggers were met (eg catch doubles or catch composition changes etc). All key target species would be managed under TACCs. However, there was some discussion as to whether these TACCs should also be individually allocated as ITQs.

  Some members felt ITQs should be immediately implemented for key species, while others felt there should be a regional TACC with an additional trigger set in the harvest strategy. If the trigger was met (e.g. hit TACC two years in a row; stock falls below 40% biomass or another agreed trigger) the species would become managed under ITQ. The working group requested Fisheries Queensland complete an in-depth analysis of both options. This is to include an assessment of how they meet the management objectives; economic analysis assessing what management costs may be passed along to fishers for each approach and a data analysis as to how they may work under different scenarios.

  A similar management structure was considered for the recreational fishery.  It was agreed there is no need to immediately change to existing limits for species where possession limits already exist.

  Where species do not have a an existing limit a general possession limit of 20 for each species was supported (similar to freshwater). A bait fish limit could be considered for bait species requiring higher limits. Total Allowable Recreational Catch limits would be in place for key species and translated through individual species possession limits and adjusted if needed through the harvest strategy over time. Boat limits were generally supported for priority black market species, e.g. prawns, barramundi and black jewfish. Boat limits would be principally set as two - three times the species possession limit where required.

  The working group also agreed to review size limits at the next meeting based on updated science and recommended an independent review of suggested minimum and maximum sizes.

  Protected Species

  The working group discussed alternative gear types and supported further investigation and trials of gear types like tunnel netting and arrow traps.  FQ will further investigate these and other possible innovative gear technologies.

  The working group supported identifying high risk areas/activities through the ERA process and tailoring management to these areas.

  The working groups also supported:

  • A best management practice program (industry led) which included promoting training, practices, inductions for new entrants etc)
  • Temporary closures, triggered through the harvest strategy
  • Better data on interactions and movements
  • Better monitoring including utilising digital observers.

  The working group also felt it was worth considering the benefits that have been seen from using 6.5inch mesh size in the Gulf of Carpentaria and whether this could be extended to the east coast to improve selectivity.

  The working group had mixed views on a net free north, but agreed to look in more details at the costs and benefits of the proposal.

  A further working group meeting was scheduled for late August / early September to draft harvest strategies and review proposed regulatory changes.

  The East coast inshore Working Group members are: Fisheries Queensland (Chair – Claire Andersen), commercial fishing (Ben Gilliland, Mark Ahern, Nathan Rynn, Margaret Stevensen and Allan Bobbermen), recreational fishing (Steve Morgan, John Bennett, Mick McDade and Nathan Johnston), seafood marketing (Matthew Vujica), conservation (Nick Heath), research (David Welch) and Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (Thomas Hatley).

• 29-30 August 2018

  The purpose of this meeting was to discuss expert panel feedback on the recommended management package, bycatch and protected species reforms, setting Total Allowable Commercial Catches (TACCs) and identifying suitable species for Individual Transferable Quota (ITQ)/TACC to support harvest strategy development.

  Fisheries Queensland provided an update on the implementation of the Sustainable Fisheries Strategy 2017-2027. The working group noted the progress report on implementing the Strategy and in particular that work to improve engagement was identified.  The working group recommended that the progress report and key meeting communiques be posted out to commercial fishers to help keep them informed about what is happening.

  Darryl McPhee attended the meeting as a member of the Sustainable Fisheries Expert Panel (Expert Panel) to provide feedback on the proposed management options. Daryl advised that the Expert Panel believe the proposed management regions provide a good structure for improving the management of this fishery for all sectors and reiterated that the Expert Panel’s advice is for a small number of ITQs to anchor the management and improve the fisheries economic outlook.  The working group asked for more advice on TACC versus ITQ.  Daryl advised that the race to fish will be less if key species that drive fishing behaviour are managed through ITQ compared to most species being managed through competitive TACC. Daryl also reiterated the Expert Panel’s caution in how many species move to ITQ and focus on a small number of species that are targeted and drive fishing effort/behaviour in the fishery. A cluster analysis will help identify those species and provide confidence about this management approach.

  The working group revisited the proposed management regions due to concerns from some commercial fishers about the number of management regions.  After discussion it was clearly reaffirmed that it is critical that commercial fishers will continue to have flexibility to move between regions with their licence and it should just be the catch limits that is are based on the proposed management regions.  There was discussion about less regions (or more), but most members agreed that the proposed six management regions were about right and would promote better stewardship at the regional level. The working group noted the analysis by Fisheries Queensland that 81-84% of commercial fishers with an ‘n’-symbol have operated in one of the proposed management regions, 14-18% have operated in two of the proposed management regions and 1-2% have operated in three of the proposed management regions over the last 5 years.  This shows that most of the commercial net fishers focus their operations around a ‘home base’ however consideration still needs to be given to multi-endorsed fishers who have diversified fishing businesses.

  The working group discussed measures required to reduce bycatch and protected species interactions.  The working group supported introducing the following mitigation measures:

  • Industry-led Best Management Practice (BMP) program to be developed with tailored regionalised components for each proposed management region building upon the existing environmental management systems but with more of a focus on training and accreditation process.  The BMP should set out the minimum standards for practices as well as best practice and innovation with incentive provided for BMP accredited fishers.
  • Mandatory use of bycatch reduction devices with an ‘approved list of BRDs’ to be included in the fisheries regulation that fishers can choose from (e.g. pingers, LED lights, breakaway panels etc.). The working group supported holding a gear innovation forum to ensure the development of these measures is evidence based and well-tested.
  • Temporary closures with triggers in the harvest strategy to avoid fishing interactions that threaten protected species population viability. Noting different sectors have different concerns with this measure and it would work best if there was a net benefit overall (i.e. pre-agreed areas that could be temporarily opened when an area is closed by local communities and all sectors).
  • Consider trials of Alternative gear types (e.g. arrow head traps and tunnel netting) to explore gears that could be more selective than mesh netting. The working group was willing to consider other apparatus multi-hook, fish traps, selective ring netting and reviewing whether barramundi could be commercially taken by line once other measures are in place (i.e. catch limits, ITQ) noting reservations from recreational members on some methods.
  • Introducing Vessel tracking, digital observers and logbook auditing to validate mitigation measures to reduce bycatch and protected species interactions.
  • Netting rules including reviewing attendance, net length and configuration to ensure fishers are close enough to respond to any interactions and increase release survival.
  • Minimum and maximum size limits to protect juvenile and large breeding fish.
  • Ecological risk assessments (ERAs) with triggers in the harvest strategies for high risks that emerge from the ERAs to ensure there is an appropriate management response to address the risk.
  • Recreational fisher education particularly on catch and release methods and expanding existing work on best practice, codes of practice.

  There were a number of additional measures that were supported by a small number of working group members that would also require funding and more adequately address protected species issues from the conservation sector perspective. This included a net free north proposal, human observers, tighter net attendance, changes to allowable take of certain species. Industry indicated that while there was very little fishing effort in the far north currently, the only way they would contemplate a net free north was if there was an agreement for fishers to access the area if there was a significant weather event or emergency further south where they couldn’t access their existing fishing grounds.  Members also advised that consultation should be undertaken with affected fishers and to not rely solely on the advice from the working group. They would also want to see a commitment from the conservation sector to the reform process rather than proposing more permanent closures, banning of mesh netting on the remainder of the east coast and would want to see WWF surrender the licences they have purchased. The working group will explore further measures at the next meeting to minimise protected species risks and seek advice from the Expert Panel on progress.

  The working group reviewed a decision tree for how to set sustainable catch limits for species in the fishery. In general, where a stock assessment is available the working group agreed that this would be used, with a TACC initially set based on maximum sustainable yield (40% biomass) and moving progressively each year to maximum economic yield (60% biomass) by 2027, unless there was agreement to move more quickly or MEY has already been reached.  Where a stock assessment was not available, existing TACCs or a 5 year catch average along with available science. The working group reviewed the top species by volume and provided comments on the options for setting the TACCs in each of the proposed management regions. The working group also agreed that an estimated recreational harvest should be included in the harvest strategy to clearly show the catch shares between sectors.

  The working group discussed the challenges around black jewfish currently and the significant increase in catch over the last 12 months from 1-2 tonnes to 30 tonnes (plus another 22 tonnes ‘jewfish – unspecified’).  The working group noted that the value of black jewfish swimbladders (up to $900/kg) was driving a significant increase in targeting and black marketing of the product.  The working group unanimously agreed that action was needed to protect black jewfish which has a vulnerable life history (aggregate, suffer barotrauma and mature at a very large size). The working group agreed a precautionary TACC of 20 tonnes and a tagging system for swimbladders should be implemented, as well as a temporary reduction in the bag limit to 1 and a requirement for recreational fishers to keep either a whole fish or gutted fish with no bladder on a boat. The working group sought advice from the Expert Panel that this is an appropriate approach to manage this issue.

  Based on the Expert Panel advice, criteria was developed for considering which tier of management (ie Tier 1 – ITQ, Tier 2 – TACC, Tier 3 – Catch Monitor) should apply.  Applying a criteria based on volume of catch, target species, availability of assessment information, commercial value, recreational value, level of sharing between sectors, vulnerability of species and influence on protected species interaction risks identified 5 species that would be suitable for ITQ (barramundi, whiting, grey mackerel, king threadfin and school mackerel (and potentially spotted mackerel if other methods than line fishing were considered).  The working group identified another 10 that would be suitable for TACC (mullet, shark, hammerhead, trevally, garfish, bream, tailor, blue threadfin, flathead, grunter, black jewfish). The remainder would be monitored, with catch triggers and decision rules in the harvest strategy. The majority of the commercial fishing members did not support ITQs because of the difficulty in obtaining fair allocation and holding of ITQ by non-fishers.  The conservation member sought ITQs on all species and further discrimination of shark species catch is required. Recognising current efforts to resolve data limitations for shark and ray catch, the GBRMPA member encouraged moving to species specific targets to manage take of shark and ray, particularly those that are more vulnerable to fishing pressure.

  The working group ran through a number of allocation models, with grey mackerel as a worked example. The working group agreed that allocation should be fair and based on an individual history.  The working group recommended the following scenarios be modelled:

  • Eligibility criteria modelled based on 100, 250 and 500kg total over five years
  • No base allocation
  • Eligibility period modelled on (1) average of the best of 2 or 3 annual catches over five years; (2) average annual catch over five years; (3) average of three annual catches with the highest and lowest in the five year period removed.
  • Catch history specific to the management regions will only be considered.
  • Trip limits for smaller incidental catch (put aside 5-10% of TACC) to minimise discarding
  • A reserve of 15% of the TACC established for appeal processes.
  • Special circumstances to be considered

  The working group discussed other models including commercial fishers nominating the amount they think is deserved, based on validated information they can provide or that government hold the quota that fishers can request a certain tonnage at a time to fish.

  The working group discussed current biological information available on the stock and size at maturity for inshore fin fish species to based on minimum legal size (MLS) allowing fish to spawn at least once before it can be harvested and protect larger fecund females while considering discard, gear selectivity, release mortality etc.  The working group considered potential size limit changes based on the science to a number of species, but recommended further consultation would be required, particularly to understand the impact on fishers, potential discards and release mortality. Further consultation would be undertaken by the department before any regulatory changes were considered.

  To support implementation of the reforms, the working group had an initial discussion on what changes might need to be made to the Fisheries Regulation in 2019. The working group recommended, as a start to, clarify the definition of a river mouth; Generally reviewing the legislation to reduce complexity and simplifying the k-symbol rules; Reviewing net length, size, drop and attendance to ensure it supports best practice, Reviewing need for inshore/offshore waters, need for weekend closures in isolated areas and net-only caught barramundi for species moving to ITQ management; and Improve the reporting requirements so it’s clear what is being caught under which entitlement/gear type.  The working group supported Fisheries Queensland talking to Industry and key stakeholders to enable more detailed proposals to be developed for consideration later in the year.

  The working group has identified a new research need to better understand the movement, life cycle, stock structure and habitat utilisation for king threadfin to improve a harvest strategy in the medium to long term. The next working group meeting is scheduled for December to draft harvest strategies and review proposed regulatory changes.

  The East coast inshore Working Group members are: Fisheries Queensland (Chair – Claire Andersen), commercial fishing (Ben Gilliland, Mark Ahern, Nathan Rynn, Margaret Stevensen and Allan Bobbermen), recreational fishing (Steve Morgan, John Bennett, Mick McDade and Nathan Johnston), seafood marketing (Matthew Vujica), conservation (Nick Heath), research (David Welch) and Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (Thomas Hatley). Apologies: Mark Ahern.

• 4-5 December 2018

  The sixth meeting of the east coast inshore working group was held in Brisbane over 4-5 December 2018. The purpose of this meeting was to discuss the detail behind implementing the recommended management package, including ecological risk assessment, co-harvest analysis of the net fishery, managing discarding, allocation options for any quota species and harvest strategy triggers and decision rules.

  The working group discussed at length potential impacts of the proposed reforms on the commercial fishing industry.  All members agreed that they want the fishery to continue, in particular the netting component, and acknowledged that there are a number of social and economic issues and protected species interactions that mean doing nothing is not an option.  Some commercial fishing members reiterated their (and the majority of commercial fishers) preference to start with Total Allowable Commercial Catches, with a trigger to move to individual quota if the TACC is reached in two consecutive years.  Most other members preferred ITQs, with the conservation sector wanting more species covered by ITQ than currently proposed.

  Fisheries Queensland provided an update on the implementation of the Sustainable Fisheries Strategy 2017-2027. The working group noted that the vessel tracking regulation and supporting policy and rebate information has been provided to commercial fishers ready for implementation on 1 January 2019. Industry noted there are still concerns from commercial fishers about vessel tracking providers.  It was also noted that work is progressing on the new apps, in particular the commercial fishing app, which should be ready for initial user testing soon. The working group was advised that the Queensland Government is currently considering the recommended management package for this fishery and a direction would be communicated with stakeholders in early 2019. Following this, Fisheries Queensland will undertake targeted consultation with commercial fishers on any allocation required to implement the reforms followed by broader public consultation on proposed changes to the Fisheries Regulation 2008 to implement the reforms.  Subject to consultation and government consideration, a new Fisheries Regulation would be in place by September 2019, with implementation of reforms to occur for the 2020 fishing season.

  The working group noted feedback from the Expert Panel, including:

  • focusing on more vulnerable sharks,
  • reiterating only a small number of quota species to avoid too much complexity,
  • developing simple stock assessment-based harvest strategies for all sectors,
  • improving understanding of discarding,
  • avoiding the use of trip limits for quota species,
  • considering rules requiring commercial fishers to hold quota and considering what triggers and decisions will be in the harvest strategy once a TACC is reached.

  More detailed advice is outlined in the Expert Panel communique.

  Fisheries Queensland advised that consultation on proposed changes to protect black jewfish has been released and is open until 13 December 2018.  Following this, consultation feedback will be considered and urgent management actions implemented in early 2019 (currently proposal is for a 20 tonne TACC on the east coast and 2 tonne TACC in Gulf of Carpentaria, recreational in-possession limit of 1 and requirement to keep fish whole).  All working group members reiterated their concern for the sustainability of this stock and the need to put catch limits in place and improve traceability and reduce blackmarketing, especially with the tenfold increase in the commercial catch which has now reached 100 tonnes year to date and evidence around increased recreational catch and blackmarketing.  The working group supported considering other management options (e.g. dual tagging of swim bladders and trunks for traceability and better recreational monitoring) to be considered as part of the broader reforms in mid to late 2019.  Some members also supported looking at potential area/time closures around aggregations.

  Working group members engaged in a general discussion on shark fishery management, particularly following recent shark attacks. It was agreed to:

  • undertake further analysis to look at the original purpose of the current 1.5m maximum size limit for shark,
  • consider adjusting the existing split associated with the total allowable commercial catch of shark to allow an increase in take in the south where there is a more viable shark fishery and the current TACC has been almost fully utilised the last few years (compared to the north which is underutilised); and
  • prepare a risk assessment of shark species ranked in order of most vulnerable to least vulnerable to guide development of an appropriate management response based on species risks in the harvest strategy,
  • consider extending the no take for commercial and recreational fishers on the most vulnerable shark species.

  The working group discussed recreational bait netting and concerns around bycatch of juvenile species including through trawl bycatch as well as blackmarketing of prawns and other compliance issues. It was acknowledged that further work was needed to quantify the risks to determine if management changes may be necessary (e.g. apparatus rules for cast nets and drag nets). It was noted that the proposed boat limit for prawns would help address the blackmarketing issue.

  Fisheries Queensland presented the draft whole-of-fishery (Level 1) Ecological Risk Assessment (ERA) for the east coast inshore fishery for the working group to provide feedback on. The working group noted that the high risks were similar to those previously identified, including risks to target species due to few limits on catch and effort; risks around bycatch, marine turtles, dugongs, cetaceans, sawfish, sharks and rays which will need to be addressed through the reforms and harvest strategies.  The working group noted information from GBRMPA regarding tolerance of key species like snubfin and dugong to withstand interactions and human induced mortality. Fisheries Queensland advised that the next stage of the ERA process will start assessing the risks of different gear types and sectors on the higher risk species.   The working group agreed to invite shark and threatened species experts to discuss risks at the next meeting.

  Fisheries Queensland presented the preliminary results of a cluster analysis to demonstrate the species which are commonly caught while targeting another species. The analysis showed that a number of species were commonly caught together – for example:

  • barramundi, king threadfin, queenfish;
  • grey mackerel, shark and queenfish;
  • school mackerel, grey mackerel.

  The cluster analysis reinforced previous recommendations to only consider ITQs on a handful of species that drive effort and behaviour. Some commercial members reiterated that the preference was TACCs and moving to ITQs only when needed over time.  The working group considered a range of ways to reduce discards once TACCs are met, including requiring a minimum quota holding on co-caught species (e.g. having to hold min 100kg of barra quota if fishing for king threadfin), or allowing fishers to go over their quota and take it off the following season’s quota account.

  Working group members revisited which category different species should go in (ITQ; TAC or Monitor). Given the concern for black jewfish it was generally agreed that this species could be considered to move to ITQ in the future, however allocation would be difficult as some fishers have consistently caught low volumes whereas others have recently invested heavily in the fishery. Some members felt that mullet should also be considered an ITQ species given it is the largest take by volume for this fishery and the concern that a TACC may result in northern fishers being unable to access harvest if the TACC is reached. However, given the amount of regional management applied to mullet already it was generally agreed to keep it as a TACC species and monitor it over time to see if the TACC is reached and review after the stock assessment for the species is released in early 2019. Members also agreed that queenfish should be managed as a Tier 3 species but monitored closely given their relatively slow-growth and late maturity compared to other trevally species.

  Most working group members felt that there may still be too many net licences in Queensland and that further structural adjustment may be needed to ensure profitable net fishers under the new reformed fishery. The working group noted that all sectors would need to work together and agree on clear objectives for a voluntarily buy back of net licences over time to ensure a sustainable and profitable net fishery and look at options to achieve this. It was noted that there is no current funding for government-funded buybacks.

  Fisheries Queensland presented a range of allocation models for ITQ species based on previous working group and expert panel feedback. The working group agreed with the expert panel advice that trip limits consumed too large a portion of the TACC and generally did not support them being implemented alongside ITQs. A number of eligibility criteria were modelled (100kg, 250kg, 500kg totals over a five year period). The working group agreed that 500kg over 5 years was a suitable level to ensure those who have historically fished the species will be allocated quota. A range of allocation models were presented and the 5-year average model (using data 2013-2017) generally appeared the fairest for fishers and represented their historical reliance. There was strong support across the working group for a logbook audit/validation process (either random or for abnormal records) for fishers eligible to be allocated ITQs. Fisheries Queensland will produce individual reports and send them to all fishers to show how they may be allocated quota under the different models for feedback.  It was noted that many commercial fishers are opposed to ITQ regardless of the allocation model.

  Fisheries Queensland presented information on the netting regulations and results of recent workshops with fishers. Further out of session work will be undertaken and stakeholders will have an opportunity to review proposed regulatory amendments in March/April 2019.

• 5-6 March 2019

  The seventh meeting of the east coast inshore working group was held in Brisbane over 5-6 March 2019.  The working group reiterated the need for reform to meet public expectations and ensure long-term sustainability of the fishery.

  The working group discussed the directions paper on fisheries reform released by the Government in January. A number of management changes were outlined for the east coast inshore fin fish fishery including:

  • splitting the fishery into six management regions based on key fish species;
  • allocating commercial individual quota for priority species (barramundi, king threadfin, grey mackerel, school mackerel, whiting);
  • set competitive total allowable catches (which are not allocated to individuals) for other key species (mullet, tailor, bream, flathead, shark);
  • introducing a general recreational in-possession limit of 20 for fish (other than bait species) without current limits; and
  • considering recreational boat limits for priority black-market species (barramundi, prawns and black jewfish).

  Members noted that further consultation would focus on accompanying regulatory reforms.

  An update on the new Wildlife Trade Operation (WTO) approval from the Commonwealth Government was discussed. One of the conditions of note was to progress the development and implementation of an independent data collection and validation program. Fisheries Queensland advised that an innovation challenge is underway using cameras, sensors and image recognition to automatically collect catch, effort and protected species interaction information. The aim is for an affordable and transferable system that can be used as a digital observer program from 2020 onwards.

  A representative from the Southern and Eastern Scalefish and Shark Fishery (SESSF) managed by the Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA) presented to the working group on the fishery’s reforms over the years and its harvest strategy. Members noted the similar issues which have been worked through in SESSF and that success could not have been possible without real-time monitoring and validated reporting. Members noted the quota management framework and strong protected species management plans in place which focussed on individual accountability through electronic monitoring.

  Professor Colin Simpfendorfer from James Cook University and Dr Michelle Heupel from Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS) and Sustainable Fisheries Expert Panel attended the working group meeting and  discussed the risks of the fishery to different species of shark, and how interactions with threatened and protected species may be better managed in the fishery.

  The working group reviewed an initial draft of the bycatch management strategy to achieve the objective to avoid and mitigate high ecological risks arising from fishing related activities on bycatch species. The working group noted that a number of measures are already proposed such as a BMP, use of BRDs and temporary closures. The working group agreed to establish a sub-group to further develop the bycatch management strategy, including refining the objectives, looking at the approach taken by other net fisheries, identify species-specific and area-specific information (e.g. mapping higher risk areas), appropriate monitoring triggers, potential BRDs and opportunities around tagging or other technologies to provide alerts to fishers to help avoid interactions.

  Quota management systems were discussed.  The majority of the working group supported:

  • No requirement to hold minimum quota (at least initially)
  • Considering ‘overs and unders’ for quota (for example up to 10% over or under catch may be carried over for only one year) to help avoid discards
  • Discards/non-retained catch to be recorded for quota species so it can be accounted for in stock assessments and future quota decisions

  Members agreed that generally a financial year would work best for the fishing season, although this may need further consideration for the southern region where winter is primary fishing season. Working group members discussed whether mullet should be considered for an ITQ system given it is the largest catch in the fishery.  Fisheries Queensland would provide further information at the next meeting on the stock assessment and options for ITQs, or splitting the TACC into ocean beach and inshore net.

  The working group discussed the draft harvest strategy that would primarily use:

  • For main target species:
    • Stock assessment: adjusting catch limits based on biomass estimates
    • Catch rates: fast-track stock assessments and consider adjustment of catch limits if catch rates fall rapidly
  • For Tier 3 species
    • Catch range / upper catch limit:  For key species (e.g. recreationally important), set upper catch thresholds that trigger review and consider whether TAC should be established
    • % change in catch in two consecutive years: Review any significant increases in catch (e.g. like recent black jewfish increase).

  The working group provided feedback on a number of regulatory changes put forward during netting regulation workshops around the state and from previous working groups. A number of views were shared with members recommending Fisheries Queensland consult more broadly on a number of options as part of the regulatory review out for consultation in May. Members agreed it was important for all stakeholders to have their say on these proposed regulatory changes.

  The working group noted the proposal to introduce a general possession limit of 20 (excluding bait) and discussed whether there was a need to consider bait limits for any particular species.  In general it was agreed no limits were needed, except for squid (consult on 20 for tiger squid, 50 for other) and mullet other than sea mullet/diamond-scale (consult on 50).The working group also supported considering reducing the pipi limit from 50 to 30 to minimise localised depletions on ocean beaches.

  Members noted that a discussion paper and survey on allocation for the east coast inshore fin fish fishery quota species would be released for consultation shortly. Fisheries Queensland advised that this would include individual reports for stakeholders to view on FishNet. The feedback of all stakeholders will be considered by Fisheries Queensland and provided for Government to make a decision on allocation approaches. The working group agreed that there should be an effective validation exercise to ensure accuracy of logbook data. This should be focused on the outliers (e.g. catches above the median), plus a random selection of fishers to validate catches (e.g. receipts/dockets/invoices) for a specified 12+ month period. The focus species for validation should be whiting, king threadfin, grey mackerel. Some members also felt that the allocation period should be 7 years instead of 5 years and feedback should be sought from commercial fishers.

  Some members raised that the number of fishing platforms should be considered as part of the reform process. Stakeholders continued to discuss between themselves options for a structural adjustment process, recognising there is no funding available from Government at this stage.

  The East Coast Inshore Working Group members are: Fisheries Queensland (Chair – Claire Andersen), commercial fishing (Ben Gilliland, Mark Ahern, Nathan Rynn and Allan Bobbermen), recreational fishing (Steve Morgan, John Bennett, Mick McDade and Nathan Johnston), seafood marketing (Matthew Vujica), conservation (Nick Heath), research (David Welch) and Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (Thomas Hatley).

• 4-15 May 2019: Bycatch/SOCI Workshop

  Role of the workshop: is to provide advice on the operational aspects of managing bycatch and species of conservation interest (SOCI) interaction in Queensland’s east coast inshore fishery and the development of a Bycatch/SOCI Management Plan consistent with the Sustainable Fisheries Strategy.

  The workshop brought together a range of stakeholders and scientists to inform development of a bycatch management plan for the East Coast Inshore Fishery. The bycatch management plan would complement the harvest strategy being developed, which will focus on management of target and by-product species.

  The workshop was provided an update on the fisheries reform process. Members of the east coast inshore fishery and the Sustainable Fisheries Expert Panel, who were in attendance, also outlined key issues.  The workshop agreed that bycatch and protected species interactions was a key challenge for the fishery and that a suite of measures were needed to address these issues and give the community more confidence in the fishery.

  An overview was provided of the first level of the ecological risk assessment completed for the fishery. The level 1 assessment and preliminary results from the level 2 assessment highlighted the high risk species groups were dugong, turtles, dolphins, sawfish and some sharks and rays.

  For each high risk species, the workshop discussed the risks, available scientific information and existing protection measures in place, along with potential solutions.  The workshop agreed that the objective was to minimise interactions so that fishing poses a low risk and doesn’t jeopardise these species’ population, noting that the risk cannot be entirely eliminated.  The workshop noted that some species can be released alive, and the main objective is to minimise mortalities.

  The workshop noted that significant efforts have been made over a number of year to reduce interactions. This included dugong protection areas, gear changes, attendance rules, existing closures and a range of other measures.  All participants acknowledged that commercial fishers actively work to avoid interactions and are continually adjusting apparatus and practices to reduce the chance of interactions.  The workshop agreed that it was critical to work with industry and focus on social and behavioural drivers rather than just technical solutions. It was acknowledged that while there are risks from netting in this fishery, there are also other non-fishing related risks including but not limited to climate change, water quality and habitat loss.

  A presentation was provided by the Australian Fisheries Management Authority around bycatch mitigation strategies for dolphin and Australian sea lions in the Commonwealth gillnet fishery.  For sea lions this includes some permanent closures and triggers for further temporary closures when interaction numbers hit a certain point.  In the case of dolphins, individual limits are also in place, supported by 100% electronic monitoring coverage that requires individual fishers to return to port if they exceeded a certain number of interactions.

  The workshop agreed that the focus should be on solutions to reduce the overall risk from the fishery while providing an approach that allows fishers to innovate and improve netting practices. The workshop recommended the following package of measures:

  1. Digital observers and better reporting – Moving to 100% digital observer coverage, starting with higher risk gear types. Improved reporting when an interaction occurs and education about what to do following an interaction.
  2. Best Management Practice (BMP) program – The BMP program should provide a training and accreditation process for fishers to demonstrate that they are using best practices (e.g. how they set gear, types of bycatch reduction devices that could be used etc).  Development of a BMP program is proposed to be funded through an FRDC project.
  3. Individual accountability and limits on interactions – Establish a limit of 1-2 mortality events per year (across dolphin, sawfish (except narrow sawfish) and dugong). After the first incident, a fisher could not return fishing without being an accredited BMP fisher or undertaking specific training. If a second incident occurred, a fisher would be restricted in the use of netting apparatus (e.g. a reduced length of net such as 200m). If a third incident occurred, a fisher would not be permitted to use netting apparatus for a specified period (but could continue other forms e.g. line fishing).
  4. Alternative gear – Establish processes to facilitate the trial of alternative gears (e.g. tunnel and arrow head fish traps) to mesh nets as well as trialling Bycatch Reduction Devices (BRDs).  A trial of tunnel nets / arrow traps in collaboration with industry is proposed to be funded through FRDC.
  5. Minimum regulatory standards – e.g. maximum ply strength for offshore N1/N4 so that large animals can break through. Consider reducing maximum mesh size in N2 down from 8.5 inch.
  6. Review and adjust some fisheries closures – Based on the results of a spatial risk assessment, work with fishers, managers and conservationists to determine if existing fisheries closures could be opened or if new closures are required with the intent to produce an overall net benefit.
  7. Innovation challenge – Develop an innovation challenge and prize to encourage net fishers to come up with innovative gear technology and test bycatch reduction devices to reduce the risk of SOCI interactions. This could include pingers, lights, gear modifications etc, noting the difficulty in statistically proving the effectiveness of changes in reducing what are generally rare interactions.
  8. Pingers trial – Trial of pingers in a particular area to test their effectiveness in reducing interactions, ensure there are no unintended consequences to SOCI species and better understand operational requirements.
  9. Better information to fishers – Create a system where fishers can report and notify other fishers about sightings of high risk species aggregations or areas where interactions have occurred.  Consider utilising the new commercial fishing app.
  10. Annual review of SOCI interactions – Annual assessment, similar to the harvest strategy, of the number of interactions, whether any risks have changed and whether any changes are required to mitigation measures.

  The workshop also recommended some species specific measures:

  1. Regional triggers for interactions with dolphins and turtles – Establish a trigger for a specified number of mortalities occurring within each of the management regions.  Once the trigger is reached, temporary closures to netting would be implemented in ‘hot spots’ that would apply to all fishers. Species this would apply to were snubfin dolphin, and Australian humpback dolphin and more vulnerable turtle species (loggerhead, leatherback, hawksbill, Olive Ridley).  Fishers would be permitted to use other forms of fishing gear (e.g. line fishing).
  2. Species specific education – Particular focus on sawfish handling and turtle handing/resuscitation.
  3. Species specific gear – Mandate turtle excluder devices in tunnel nets.

  Before implementing these measures, additional work is required to identify potential ‘hot spots’ for key species that could be closed temporarily. GBRMPA, DES and Fisheries Queensland will work with researchers over the next two months to pull together the relevant species distribution information for dolphin, dugong, sawfish and turtle nesting sites, and overlay it with existing closures and recent fishing effort (and vessel tracking information in the longer term), to identify potential areas for temporary closures, inform the level 2 ERA and/or inform review of Dugong Protection Areas.

  It was noted that a number of shark species are more vulnerable and listed as threatened, endangered or protected. It was noted that a number of measures are already in place (no take species such as white shark, grey nurse and speartooth; trip limits for guitarfish, shovel nose, white tip and grey reef sharks) and a maximum size limits. It was noted that discards of other shark (e.g. hammerhead) would need to be considered in sustainable catch limits through the harvest strategy.

  The workshop reviewed existing reporting requirements and recommended:

  • Further improving the existing SOCI logbook and consider using AIVR to report interactions rather than through the Department of Environment and Science marine animal stranding hotline to reduce duplication. Fisheries Queensland would continue to provide data to DES and the public.
  • Develop information on what steps fishers need to take if an interaction occurs.
  • Educate fishers to focus on releasing animals alive and include information on how best to do that.  However, if an animal does not survive and is a high risk species, consider whether the fisher can assist with collecting and providing more information to better understand the population (e.g. photo, sample etc.).
  • Introduce a debrief with the relevant fishery manager after mortality incidents with high risk species to discuss lessons learned and review netting practices.
  • Improve public reporting (quarterly interactions, by region and gear, better accessibility online) of interactions.

  The workshop noted a number of actions are required to be completed before a draft Bycatch and SOCI Management Strategy can be developed in full.  Fisheries Queensland advised that some of the proposed measures would be consulted on as part of implementing the fisheries reforms and that once a draft Bycatch and SOCI Management Plan is available, it would be made available for public consultation later in 2019.

• 6-8 August 2019

  The eighth meeting of the east coast inshore working group was held in Brisbane from 6-8 August 2019. The purpose of the meeting was to discuss recent stock assessments, make recommendations on catch limits for the fishery, review the draft harvest strategy and bycatch management strategy and make a final recommendation to Government on the east coast inshore fishery reform package.

  The commercial fishing industry expressed concerns about the potential impacts of the reforms, but also acknowledged that change was needed, particularly in relation to managing bycatch and protected species interactions. The working group generally felt that there would be benefits from a structural adjustment package to assist with the reform process and further reduce the number of platforms, noting that the government does not have any funds at this stage for buybacks or adjustment.

  The working group worked through the reform proposals outlined in the recent discussion paper and recommended a number of changes:

  • Management regions: The working group discussed reducing the number of management regions from 6 to 5. Some members (commercial fishers) supported this proposal to make regions more even in size, while others (conservation, recreational) felt it would limit effective management at local level. Further discussion on management regions below.
  • Amend maximum mesh size under N1 and N2 fishery symbols: The working group recommended that the maximum mesh size for nearshore and river-set mesh nets should be reduced from 8½ inch to 8 inch (with no max. ply rating) and that the maximum mesh size for offshore waters should remain at 6½ inch (with a max. ply rating of line 50).
  • Definition of rivermouth: The working group and compliance officers agreed that discussions need to occur to identify a better way to determine the location of river and creek mouths. However, members noted this may be a lengthy process.
  • Black jewfish: The recreational sector did not support making black jewfish a no-take recreational species once the commercial catch limit is reached. This would only apply to black jewfish until a swim bladder tagging system was in place.
  • Barramundi size limit: While not in the discussion paper, the majority of the working group recommended reducing the maximum size limit on barramundi from 120cm to 110cm to protect more breeding females, particularly in response to the stock assessment which suggested egg production was lower than desired.

  The working group provided advice on the Total Allowable Catch (TAC) setting process for Tier 1 and Tier 2 species. Members noted that initial TACs were proposed to be set using current stock assessments, where available, or a five year catch average or current catch (2018) where not available.

  The following provides a summary of the discussions and recommendations:

  Species	Current estimated biomass^	2018 catch	Proposed TACs	Current rec limit	Notes
  Grey mackerel*	48% NE stock; 51% SE stock	NE Comm 77t SE Comm 64t Rec 15t	TACC 129t TARC 13t	5	Two stocks: north east (NE) and south east (SE)
  Whiting*	29%	Comm 168t Rec 50t	TACC 162t TARC 48t	30	Productive species. Modelling suggests could be rebuilt to 60% biomass in around 5 years
  School mackerel*	65% SE stock; NE stock not assessed	Comm 102t Rec 17t	TACC 80t TARC 18t	10	Proposed as an ITQ species in MA6 with TACCs in other MAs
  Barramundi *	53-71% but with egg production ranging 25-50%	Comm 182t	TACC 243 t	5	No TACs identified in stock assessment, only TACCs
  King threadfin*	NA	Comm 72t Rec 76t	TACC 72t	5	No stock assessment. Working group noted there is currently no maximum size limit to protect females
  Bream#	34%	Comm 67t Rec 57t	TACC 81t TARC 69t	30	Proposed TAC will rebuild stock to 60% in 12 years. Conservation preferred lower TAC to rebuild more quickly.
  Flathead#	36% Moreton; 70% Hervey Bay	Comm 41t Rec 21t	TACC 61t TARC 35t	5	Working group recommended to instead set TAC limit using five year average given difference between Moreton Bay and Hervey Bay stocks biomass, noting some risk to Moreton Bay stock recovery.
  Sea Mullet#	~50%	Comm 1671t	TACC 1614t	20	Proposed TACC would maintain biomass at 50%. Noted this is an initial TACC and future TACC will be informed by discussions with NSW. Rebuilding to 60% requires joint management with NSW to cut catch in both states, which was supported by majority of working group. Recreational members were concerned and recommended a lower catch limit. Conservation sector strongly recommended a reduced TACC.
  Spotted mackerel#	21-41%	Comm 34t Rec 28t	TACC 48t	5	Concern from commercial members about the distribution of TACC across regions resulting in very small regional TACCs.
  Tailor#	50%	Comm 57t Rec 75t	TACC 120t	20	Recreational fishers take majority of catch. Current stock assessment does not provide 60% rebuild targets.
  Black jewfish#	NA	Comm 136t	TACC 20t	1	Hay Point closure and swim bladder tagging also proposed.
  Shark and ray#	NA	156 t	TACC 400t (reduced from 500 t, allowing for removal of 100t of hammerhead shark TACC)	1	Working group agreed to reduce total catch temporarily on the basis that more species-specific TACCs will be set in the next few years as more information is available (e.g. ERAs)
  Hammerhead shark#	NA	17t	100 t	1	Proposed to become a no-take species for recreational fishers

  Note: * Tier 1 species to be managed under ITQ; # Tier 2 species to be managed under TACC; ^ Estimates the current biomass compared to unfished biomass. The SFS sets a target of 40% biomass by 2020 and 60% biomass by 2027.

  The conservation sector welcomed the leadership shown by the working group industry members to reduce the shark and ray TACC given the community interest in this fishery.

  Generally the working group were comfortable with splitting TACCs across the management regions according to 2013-17 catch history. For Tier 2 species with very small TACCs in a region, it was recommended that undercatch should be accrued over a number of years to allow for overcatch in future years where catches are seasonal/patchy. This would not apply to black jewfish.

  The working group discussed the rollout of vessel tracking and discussed why inshore line fishers couldn’t use the SPOT device. The working group also sought advice on what was happening with refunds and encouraged Fisheries Queensland to resolve those issues quickly to ensure all fishers were compliant. Fishers also sought clarification on the rules around SMS to confirm a unit is working. Fisheries Queensland advised a newsletter answering a number of common questions will be distributed to industry shortly.

  The working group reviewed the harvest strategy and recommended consistent rules for building and maintaining biomass towards 60% as well as decision rules for when biomass falls below 50%, 40%, 30% and below 20%.

  The working group discussed quota monitoring and reporting and recommended:

  Quota management:

  • No minimum quota holding. The conservation and recreational members supported holding a minimum quota to be able to fish.
  • Species becomes no-take when TACC reached.
  • Waive transfer fees for 6-12 months to encourage trading.
  • Allow quota-balancing before landing (can trade with other fishers on the water before landing).
  • Monitor discards and incorporate into stock assessments.
  • Consider additional quota management rules if needed in the future to manage risk.

  GBRMPA communicated concerns regarding the adoption of this quota management system and requested that planned mitigations (e.g. monitoring discards, electronic observers, additional quota rules) remain a priority focus and are regularly scrutinised.

  Reporting:

  • Should be consistent reporting across fisheries, but ensure flexibility for different fisheries and fishing practices.
  • Estimated weights and accurate numbers (of fish or containers) on landing.
  • Accurate weights after landing, but allow time to get to the wholesaler to weigh large volume product.
  • Allow multiple trips to be accumulated before completing a catch disposal record.
  • Catch disposal records but don’t require buyer’s signatures (logistically difficult to obtain from interstate, especially with paper records) without compromising traceability of product.

  The working group reviewed the bycatch management strategy and commended all involved at the recent workshop and the solutions put forward. This would be a significant step forward for the fishery in addressing some of its key risks and in meeting the community’s expectations. The working group made a number of comments including:

  • Ensure cameras are in place from January 2020, regardless of the outcomes of the innovation trial currently underway. Fisheries Queensland to communicate the WTO requirements to fishers in preparation for 2020. The working group noted the bycatch workshop recommendation to move to 100% coverage, with an initial focus on offshore nets. Fisheries Queensland would work through further details over the next 5 months.
  • Consider a smart gear competition.
  • Supportive of individual responsibility for interactions and mortalities.
  • Suggested better communication with fishers and the community about interactions and mortalities that have occurred in a region in more real-time. This would mean some changes to reporting requirements.

  The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority showed some initial mapping results and agreed to work with researchers and Department of Environment and Science (DES) to finalise mapping of key locations for dugong, inshore dolphins, sawfish (excluding narrow) and four priority turtle species by the end of 2019 to inform the bycatch management strategy.

  The working group discussed the criteria for allocating quota and the feedback from consultation. Many fishers preferred going back to five years rather than 6 out of 7. The working group discussed the eligibility criteria and agreed that there should still be an eligibility criteria, but it should be 250-500kg over the whole east coast over 2013-17. This would aim to ensure it is fair for smaller scale fishers, but doesn’t result in excessive numbers of small allocations. The working group also suggested waiving transfer fees and considering some form of online trading site to promote trading between fishers in the first twelve months.

  The working group also discussed their desire for some form of structural adjustment longer-term to reduce the number of fishing platforms and improve viability of the fishery. However, members felt that this could be considered after allocation had occurred and there had been a period of time to allow for natural consolidation.  The working group discussed learnings from previous buybacks and adjustment processes in other states (e.g. NSW) and considered a range of alternative structural adjustment models to support fishers wishing to exit the fishery. The working group agreed to consider this further next year.

  The working group discussed the regional boundaries and noted that there was a desire to promote regional management, but also needed to be flexible for fishers and compliance. The commercial sector preferred moving to 5 regions rather than 6. The recreational and conservation sector supported retaining the 6 regions, but suggested some changes to the boundaries. Both conservation and recreational sectors were concerned about the imbalance of barramundi and grey mackerel catch across regions, and not reflecting the grey mackerel stock boundaries. All members supported moving towards stronger regional management and a move to greater stewardship and co-management at a community level. The working group noted that a regional management trial is currently underway for Moreton Bay. To be discussed further at the next meeting.

  The East Coast Inshore Working Group members in attendance: Fisheries Queensland (Chair – Claire Andersen), commercial fishing (Ben Gilliland, Mark Ahern, Nathan Rynn and Allan Bobbermen), recreational fishing (Steve Morgan, John Bennett, Mick McDade), seafood marketing (Matthew Vujica), conservation (Nick Heath), research (David Welch) and Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (Thomas Hatley).

• 15-16 July 2021

  The reappointed East Coast Inshore Working Group met 15-16 July 2021 in Brisbane. The purpose of the working group meeting was to update members on the progress on Sustainable Fisheries Strategy 2017-2027 (SFS) reform process, new research available, and harvest strategy consultation results and implementation for the East Coast Inshore fishery from 1 September 2021.

  Fisheries Queensland provided an update on the implementation of the SFS, commercial fishing changes, fishery catch and effort information and a stock assessment and total allowable catch setting schedule.

  Members were invited to provide a general update from their respective sectors. The commercial sector noted concerns with the upcoming reporting requirements, recreational fishing reporting and data accuracy, mesh size and net ply issues, future viability of smaller scale commercial fishers, and the high barrier for entry for new entrants in an aging industry. The commercial sector also emphasised concerns about industry mental health and wellbeing which has been exacerbated by limited support or compensation from Government.

  Recreational members outlined interest in reviewing the barramundi maximum size limit, stock assessment data inputs, black jewfish management, recreational data collection and economic information improvements, and improvements to commercial logbook data validation. There were also concerns about a shift in effort to longer lived, slower growing species (e.g. lutjanidae species), as well as ‘saddleback’ bream, which members noted has recently been observed in snapper and whiting. Recreational members sought clarification that the closure of black jewfish to all sectors once a total allowable commercial catch (TACC) is reached would not apply to other species. Fisheries Queensland confirmed that only the commercial sector would be closed for other species if a TACC is reached.

  The conservation member noted priority issues include protected species interactions and concerns with the draft protected species management strategy (PSMS), in particular implementing PSMS management arrangements without strong monitoring and data validation which may provide a disincentive to report interactions and prevent the PSMS from meeting its objectives. Shark depredation research, and shark species specific management, is also a priority to reduce risk of more vulnerable species. It was also noted that recording of discards following reform implementation will be a key focus as the risk of discarding and high grading may increase.

  The GBRMPA member noted support for the implementation of the SFS across Queensland’s fisheries, including the benefits of the 60 per cent biomass target reference point. Improved monitoring, including implementation of independent data validation is a priority for GBRMPA going forward, which is important for understanding and mitigating the impacts of protected species interactions and assists in accounting for discards which is also a concern for GBRMPA.

  Fisheries Queensland provided an update on the public consultation results for the draft east coast harvest strategy and PSMS, noting there was good representation from the consultation across regions and sectors. Feedback from consultation has been considered and used to inform development of the final harvest strategy, PSMS and harvest strategy policy and guidelines, to be released in the coming weeks. Fisheries Queensland noted that many responses related to specific management issues that were outside of the scope of the consultation and will be addressed with the working group over time.

  Fisheries Queensland then presented a refresher on the draft harvest strategy key components, including objectives, sectoral allocation, and decision rules. Working group members discussed the difference between the harvest strategy reference points and those used by the Status of Australian Fish Stocks (SAFS). Members also discussed concerns with the objective to monitor localised depletion, particularly questioning how to measure and manage localised depletion. Recreational members questioned how sectoral shares were determined, how they will be reviewed and updated, and noted that catchability of a species can be affected by fishing pressure in an area, and could impact on a sectors ability to take their sectoral share. Members expressed concern with the overcatch decision rules, in particular for regions that have low species TACC’s (e.g. spotted and school mackerel). Commercial and recreational sectors expressed concern that there are no undercatch provisions. The working group requested clarification to the rebuilding strategy process for species approaching the limit reference point. Fisheries Queensland noted that following consultation feedback there were clarifications but no major changes made to the draft harvest strategy.

  Fisheries Queensland presented the PSMS and emphasised an initial key focus of developing best practice management for the fishery and a continual improvement process. Members highlighted the importance of fisher training to ensure that best practice standards can be learnt, adopted, and met. An emphasis on improved data collection and validation of interactions is a key focus of the PSMS, and regional workshops commencing in August will be undertaken to understand and develop regional specific management. Fisheries Queensland explained the escalating measures for fishers and explained that the individual accountability approach was designed to ensure that responsible fishers are not penalised. Members supported a focussed discussion at the next meeting on protected species management and key steps going forward and suggested inviting representatives from the Department of Environment and Science. A commercial member noted they have engaged Oceanwatch to assist Industry in developing Industry Codes of Practice and best practice management, which was well received by the working group.

  Fisheries Queensland updated members on Wildlife Trade Operation (WTO) for the fishery, including the recent revocation of the fishery’s accreditation and the process for reapplying for WTO accreditation. The working group noted that a separate WTO application was recently progressed for the ocean beach fishery operating under K symbols which was approved on 21 May 2021. The commercial sector supported pursuing WTO accreditation for the line and tunnel net sectors of the fishery in the short term.

  The working group noted a presentation on the ecological risk assessment (ERA) process and recent level 2 ERAs completed for the east coast inshore fishery. The conservation member noted that narrow sawfish was a high-risk species in the ERA, but not included in the PSMS’s list of prioritised species, and it should be considered for inclusion. The working group noted that ERAs only consider management arrangements in place at the time of the assessment, and the next ERAs for the fishery are likely to see a shift in risk ratings downwards after the implementation of harvest strategy and PSMS.

  Animal Science Queensland provided an update on black jewfish research. Preliminary data shows that the black jewfish released in an acoustic tagging study have demonstrated good post capture survival (>85%) when released using release weights. The recreational sector suggested that education on using release weights through social media would be beneficial. The working group noted that spawning period research suggests that November to February is the key spawning period on the east coast and that October may also be an important reproductive month. The working group discussed preliminary management implications from this research, including the merit of introducing a spawning closure. It was noted the research is still underway, and management action based on this research is unlikely to occur until the research is finalised and published.

  The working group discussed key fishery rule concerns. The commercial sector emphasised concerns with mesh and net ply changes being introduced from 1 September 2021. Recreational members highlighted reviewing the barramundi maximum size limit and black jewfish management. Fisheries Queensland noted regional workshop expressions of interest will be advertised soon where some of these regional specific arrangements will be further discussed, and a summary of the outcomes will be reported to the working group.

  Fisheries Queensland presented the methodology and outcomes from the BDO social and economic indicators report for commercial and charter fisheries, and noted that an interactive dashboard is available on the department’s website. The working group noted that BDO have been contracted to continue this project as well as work focused on providing comparable social and economic information from the recreational sector alongside the commercial and charter sectors. It was noted that collecting social and economic information for all sectors will help inform management of our fisheries in the future while pursuing ecological objectives. The conservation member asked if export value is measured in the survey and if it can be improved as this is an important indicator, particularly in the context of WTO accreditation.

  Fisheries Queensland presented the methodology and results of the 2019-20 statewide recreational fishing survey. The results include recreational harvest, participation, effort and expenditure and a range of other data. The recreational sector expressed concerns with the methodology and accuracy of the information collected, as well as emphasised an increase in recreational fishing during the COVID-19 pandemic, and suggested discussing options for alternative data collection in future. The results of the survey are available via a dashboard on the department’s website. Fisheries Queensland also explained and answered questions on the boat ramp survey program.

  Fisheries Queensland provided an update on the new standardised commercial fishing reporting requirements that will commence on 1 September 2021. Working group members asked questions regarding the reporting process, including pre-trip notices, logbook, prior reporting and weights notice  completion timeframes, accurate weights and certified scales, and landing location requirements. Specific scenarios were discussed for the tunnel net and ocean beach fisheries, and the ability to retain reported catch across multiple days fishing, with further discussion and resolution to these issues required. The working group then noted an update on the new commercial fishing smartphone application (the app). The app will cover a range of fisheries and is designed to encompass the new reporting requirements.

  QBFP provided an update on enforcement activities and offences in the east coast inshore fishery. New enforcement powers were discussed, including entry to premises and powers to produce an image or writing from an electronic device (e.g. mobile phones). Black marketing and product substitution was noted as priority areas for the QBFP, and the department has made significant progress towards investigating and prosecuting these offences. QBFP requested working group members champion the importance of compliance in key areas such as vessel tracking and black marketing.

  The next meeting will be held in November 2021 and will discuss protected species management and next steps, independent monitoring and data validation, regional harvest strategy progress, shark depredation research, localised depletion monitoring, barramundi size limits, stock assessment processes and sectoral share processes going forward.

  The East Coast Inshore Fishery Working Group members are: Fisheries Queensland (Chair – Kimberly Foster, Principal Fishery Manager – Tony Ham, Senior Fishery Manager – Ryan Keightley, , Commercial fishing (Allan Bobbermen, Nathan Rynn, Benjamin Coyne, Daniel Atherton ), Post Harvest (Matt Vujica), Indigenous Representative (Brian Singleton) Recreational fishing (John Bennet, Ken Davis, Kim Martin, Phil Laycock, Rhyce Bullimore), Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (Tom Hatley), Animal Science Queensland (Sam Williams), Working group observers: Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol (Robert Marsh Brett Depper ), Conservation (Simon Miller AMCS).

• 7 December 2021

  The East Coast Inshore Fishery Working Group met on 7 December 2021 online. The purpose of the meeting was to update members on the progress on implementation of the Sustainable Fisheries Strategy 2017-2027 (SFS) , present recent research on barramundi, shark depredation and a north Queensland tunnel net trial, and to discuss barramundi maximum size limits, net ply and mesh size requirements and the rationale for current commercial catch limits. The working group welcomed a new commercial fishing member from Moreton Bay and a member from the Department of Environment and Science (DES).

  Fisheries Queensland provided an update on the implementation of the SFS, 13 new harvest strategies and associated regulations that commenced on 1 September 2021, current consultation on the listing of scalloped hammerhead under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 and proposed urgent management measures for the Gulf of Carpentaria, and the release of the commercial fishing reporting application ‘eCatch’. The conservation member noted concerns with hammerhead discard mortality considering the current scalloped hammerhead listing and consultation process and recommended the implementation of a total allowable mortality limit (including discards) in future for hammerhead shark.

  Members were invited to provide a general update from their respective sectors. The commercial sector noted concerns regarding the new reporting requirements, timeliness of stock assessments and alignment with the harvest strategy process, availability of quota for purchase or lease and management of latent quota and co-caught species. Commercial fishers were also interested in exploring quota reconciliation (including undercatch and overcatch) and the ability to retain catch across fishing trips. Recreational members outlined interest in discussing catch share arrangements, the recent Minderoo Foundation report on fisheries performance, the accuracy of recreational fishing survey estimates and ways to improve communication of working group outcomes. The conservation member highlighted the current high international focus on the Great Barrier Reef, including impacts of fishing on the reef and protected species that will likely be considered in future world heritage decisions. Members from the conservation sector, Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA) and DES raised concerns about protected species interactions, adequate data collection and validation and ensuring that high risk species are incorporated into the Protected Species Management Strategy (PSMS) going forward (e.g. narrow sawfish). GBRMPA also expressed interest in how quota arrangements introduced in September 2021 are progressing, including information on reporting of discards and quota consolidation. The working group recognised the importance of fishing to Aboriginal People and Torres Strait Islanders, but some members held concerns regarding the safety and sustainability of some netting practices used by traditional fishers and potential black marketing, particularly during the barramundi closure period. All working group members expressed a desire for more responsive decision making through harvest strategies.

  Fisheries Queensland provided an overview of the recent regulation changes to net ply and mesh size in the N1, N2 and N4 fisheries. It was noted the net ply changes were intended to reduce risk to threatened, endangered and protected species (e.g. larger animals may break through the net) while mesh size changes were primarily in response to evidence of reduced egg production in the barramundi fishery. Since 1 September 2021, clear signals have been received from the commercial sector that the new net ply and mesh size regulations are not workable for the nearshore component of the fishery, and working group members considered regional commercial sector feedback on the issue.

  The working group noted that empirical evidence of lighter net ply reducing protected species interactions in the nearshore fishery is limited and advice from commercial fishers suggesting that lighter ply may have the opposite effect, increasing the risk of entangling non-target species. Given the feedback from industry, complexity of the issues, limited data to inform solutions, concerns of increased entanglement risk and the broader reforms recently implemented in the fishery, the majority of the working group recommended that ply rating in the nearshore be amended to a maximum of line 90 across all management regions or, if preferable, maximum ply ratings more appropriate for each region (e.g. line 70 in region 2, line 90 in region 3). The working group agreed that in making this recommendation there is a need to immediately progress work on best management practice, improvements to the PSMS, including a review of gear rules, increased and adequate monitoring and data validation.

  With regard to mesh size, the working group noted the 2019 barramundi stock assessment results suggesting that egg production was low across the fishery, and all members recognised the importance of protecting large female fish as research demonstrates an exponential relationship between fish size and egg production. The working group also noted the influence of environmental cycles and habitat on barramundi recruitment and recruit survival. Members welcomed an updated barramundi stock assessment which is due in 2022.

  Considering this, the working group supported delaying consideration of mesh size and barramundi maximum size limit changes following the release and consideration of the updated stock assessment, with a decision to be made prior to the 2023 fishing season. Mesh size for the nearshore component will remain at the pre-September 2021 mesh size of 215mm until an alternative solution is identified. The recreational sector noted that if changes were to be made in future, they would support a reduction in the maximum size limit for all sectors and a reduction in mesh size to select fish commensurate with any reduced maximum size limit. The commercial sector noted they would support a reduction in maximum size limit, total allowable catch limits and possession limits pending the updated stock assessment results in preference to gear restrictions, noting that industry would prefer to fish efficiently and with the flexibility to use gear that suits their operation within output controls. All sectors agreed that all relevant management arrangements should be reviewed with the updated stock assessment. The conservation sector emphasised the importance of responsive management action and stressed that a decision must be made before the 2023 season at the latest.

  The working group were presented with an update on Fisheries Research and Development Corporation (FRDC) research priorities and an overview of recent research including the contribution of stocking to east coast barramundi catch, shark depredation and feasibility of alternative fishing gear (tunnel nets) to reduce bycatch in north Queensland waters.

  Research project outcomes of barramundi origins in wild caught fish in the dry tropics region indicated a high percentage of commercially caught barramundi originate from the wild, with stocked fish only contributing to a small proportion of commercial catch. Working group members noted it was a good indication that stocked fish were not required to support the wild fishery and expressed interest in extending this research to different regions and species. The research noted the most effective way to increase the number and size of barramundi in the marine fishery is to improve access to, and quality of, freshwater habitats for juvenile barramundi.

  The working group were provided with a summary of shark depredation projects underway and recently completed, including work quantifying depredation rates in the line fishery off Mooloolaba and the Spanner Crab fishery. The working group noted that there is a large range of research underway and shark depredation is a complex issue. The research demonstrated that there were a range of shark species associated with depredation and that these species varied based on the fishery and area of focus. Further work is underway in Queensland to explore additional regions and shark species associated with depredation. Members expressed from their own experience that depredation events have increased in recent years, and that the behavioural association of sharks with boat and fishing activities are likely to be one of the key drivers. An FRDC national workshop on depredation will be held in 2022, which plans to bring together fishers, fisheries managers and scientists from all jurisdictions to progress initiatives around depredation.

  The working group noted a research trial testing the feasibility of alternative gears (tunnel nets) to reduce bycatch mortality in northern inshore net fisheries. The project brought together fishers from the Moreton Bay tunnel net fishery with north Queensland net fishers and seafood processors to trial the gear in Cardwell (which was identified as the most feasible site). Catch was dominated by species of lower commercial value such as silver grunter and did not capture commercial quantities of key target species such as barramundi and king threadfin. Survivability of all catch was high, including protected species (marine turtles), and all catch was released alive. The gear was technically feasible but needed refinement and extensive trialling to determine viability. There was also interest in researching ‘arrow-head traps’ as, anecdotally, these were historically used with success. The recreational sector noted concerns with use of tunnel nets regarding localised depletion, impacts and any consequential changes to access for recreationally important species, and social aspects if this type of gear were permitted in north Queensland in future.

  Fisheries Queensland provided an update on the Total Allowable Commercial Catch (TACC) limits set for the 2021 and 2022 fishing seasons, including the rationale used to determine the TACC limits for target and secondary species in the fishery. The recreational sector noted concerns with how catch shares are set and the use of historical data (e.g. black jewfish). Particular concerns were raised regarding how net free zone reallocation was incorporated into catch share allocation calculations for barramundi. Members acknowledged that some commercial secondary or byproduct species hold high recreational value and the process for any future catch share calculations for these species should ensure these values are considered in the calculations and decision-making process. Recreational members sought further clarification on how the current sectoral catch shares were established, how future catch shares are applied (including what data is used) and how decision rules are applied under the harvest strategy to set Total Allowable Recreational Catch (TARC) limits at the next meeting.

  The next meeting will be held in March/April 2022 and will discuss protected species management and next steps, independent monitoring and data validation, regional harvest strategy progress, shark depredation research, localised depletion monitoring and stock assessment and sectoral share processes going forward.

• 26-27 July 2022

  The East Coast Inshore Fishery working Group met on 26 and 27 July in Brisbane. The purpose of the meeting was to update members on the progress on implementation of the Sustainable Fisheries Strategy (SFS), present recent research on black jewfish, and shark depredation, to discuss spotted mackerel trip limits, eFisher App, sea mullet stock assessment and total allowable commercial catch (TACC) setting, king threadfin stock assessment and TACC setting, protected species management strategy, and managing discards.

  Action items from previous meeting discussed at length, with some issues for follow up action (amending meeting notes to accurately reflect the conversation {sectoral positions on net mesh size and ply, as well as recognition in Fisheries Queensland documents, websites and stock assessments that some Tier 3 species “hold significant recreational fishing importance and values”}, desire for information session on stock assessment and recreational fishing monitoring methodology, process around finalising communique and meeting minutes).

  Fisheries Queensland provided an update on the implementation of the SFS, on the Spanish mackerel discussion paper, and mesh size and ply ratings amending legislation.  Some working group members noted concerns regarding legislation that reverts to pre-1 September 2021, size and ply ratings, in particular the understanding that the change was not to happen until the barramundi stock assessment was released, as previously recommended by the working group. The members raised concept of a review of barramundi maximum size – to be discussed in further detail upon release of the barramundi stock assessment.

  Members were invited to provide a general update from their respective sectors. Working group members expressed concerns of increased effort on other species in the east coast inshore fishery, by all sectors, following any change to Spanish mackerel fishery management. Members received the reassurance of Fisheries Queensland that catch monitoring triggers based on increased catch rates are in place to ensure effective management of species in this case. Recreational members requested the working group be provided with a comprehensive table of the annual total net harvest for all species by regional breakup, for the complete years of 2019 and 2022, then annually thereafter so that any significant changes in harvest trends and targets can be identified and appropriate responses explored in a timely manner. The commercial members overall were very pleased with functionality of eFisher App and had suggestions on minor improvements. The commercial members expressed ongoing concerns with discard of king threadfin, the setting of the king threadfin TACC and reports that quota is difficult to access.  Some commercial fishers expressed concern regarding technicalities of reporting, logbooks and monitoring.  Commercial members suggested a desire to fillet fish at sea, the same as RQ and SM holders, to make operations more efficient and safer. Commercial fisher members expressed the desire to be able to retain catch, concerns with delays associated with need for weights notice prior to return to fish, reports of a good sea mullet season by most fishers, and concerns regarding small TACC’s restricting some fishing operations. All members supported progressing discussion of the concept of tagging for traceability, commercially caught black jewfish bladders. The conservation member provided an update of the Australian Marine Conservation Society (AMCS) GoodFish Sustainable Seafood Guide, as well as update on AMCS and James Cook University Species of Conservation Interest (SOCI) mapping that identified high risk hot spots. The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA) member provided an update on this years’ mass bleaching event and continued scrutiny of fishing activities in the GBRMPA World Heritage Area.

  A Fisheries Queensland member provided the members with an update and overview on the eFisher App, as well as demonstrated to members use of the app.

  The Working group were presented with an overview of recent research including the preliminary results of the black jewfish research project and shark depredation. The research member provided an overview of research priorities and sought feedback from members on what projects are most important and highest priority. Some of the high priority items included more work on SOCI species, improved recreational catch data, maximum economic yield estimation for fisheries and historical catch and stock abundance information. The Department of Environment and Science representative strongly supports further research on gear trials to reduce SOCI interactions.

  The members were provided with a summary and overview of the sea mullet stock assessment. Some members indicated desire to have a NSW representative present to hear discussion. Members noted that the estimated biomass is around 37%, which is above maximum sustainable yield (33%), but trending down. The members considered the sea mullet stock assessment and application of harvest strategy decision rules to allocate the TACC for the 2023 season. Most members recommended retaining current total allowable catch for Management Region 5 for the 2023 season, (noting the deviation from existing Harvest Strategy) pending agreement with NSW joint jurisdictional approach, however the Conservation Member noted concerns regarding current harvest potentially causing further stock depletion and therefore a bigger potential adjustment when the target reference point is settled pending discussion with NSW.

  The members were provided with a summary and overview of the king threadfin stock assessment and noted that all east coast assessment regions were close to or above 60% biomass. The members considered the king threadfin stock assessment to determine TACC setting for the 2023 fishing season. General consensus between members, was to maintain proposed TACC with 50/50 catch share allocation (for review in 2023 to consider discard data and 2022 total commercial catch). Members acknowledge the impact of current allocations to Management Region 5 with some concern.

  The members were provided with data of reported threatened, endangered or protected (TEP) species interactions pre and post September 2021, and continued improvement on implementation of the Protected Species Management Strategy (PSMS). Some members expressed concerns that known or suspected mortalities did not appear to be reflected in reporting interactions. Members discussed the need to improve confidence in the data recording of TEP interactions via implementation of a data validation program. OceanWatch representatives provided an overview of their Responsible Fisher Training program to members. Members agreed that further relevant, reliable data of commercial fishing TEP interactions is required, Fisheries Queensland improve communication and education with industry, about obligations in reporting TEP interactions, encourage participants to engage in programs such as the OceanWatch program, and to continue compliance focus on non-compliant operators. The conservation member also recommended that further actions (e.g additional spatial protection) are required to reduce the risk to some TEP species, consistent with the objective of the PSMS.

  The members were provided with an update on reporting by Fisheries Queensland.  Fisheries Queensland undertook that further discussion/work is required in the reporting concerns in the N10 fishery (weights notices, co-carrying fish and combined fishing operations).

  Working group members were provided with a summary and overview of several methodologies implemented by other jurisdictions and countries to manage discards and over/under quota situations.  Members discussed various scenarios and identified some key concepts for members to discuss with their peers, for further discussion at the next working group meeting.

  The commercial take of spotted mackerel was discussed by members, with particular focus around the concept of introducing commercial possession limits once a threshold percentage of the TACC is reached. Members recommended the re-introduction of the 50 fish in-possession trip limit for net fishers once 50% of the TACC has been reached in a management region.

  Members were provided with an update that Management Region 3 school mackerel TACC was reached and exceeded on 23 July 2022. The members discussed the strict application of Harvest Strategy Decision Rules and concluded that in this circumstance, that they were prepared to recommend a 1:1 deduction in the 2023 regional TACC season, based on the 2022 over catch.  The reasoning for this was unique and situation specific.

  Members were reminded that the intentional or reckless harm to fish is an offence under the Fisheries Act 1994.  This includes unlawful treatment to crabs during the release process from commercial nets.

  Commercial members expressed a desire to be able to fillet Tier 1 species for remote operational efficiencies and safety (e.g. forced to return to port in poor weather).  Fisheries Queensland recommends that industry participants seek data regarding conversion factors prior to further discussion.  Members noted there is a maximum size limit for barramundi, which may complicate this issue.

  Members noted that several agenda papers (Catch Share Process, Black jewfish TACC setting, Shark and Ray size limits and the Compliance Report) were not addressed in session, due to time constraints.  Fisheries Queensland undertook that some of these papers will be addressed via online telecommunication style meetings in coming months.

  The East Coast Inshore Fishery working group members are: Fisheries Queensland (Fill in Chair – Michael Mikitis, Principal Fishery Manager – Tony Ham, Senior Fishery Manager – Jeffrey Ikin, Fishery Manager – Cherelle Broughton, QBFP – District Manager - Brett Depper and Investigator - Robert Marsh, Agri-Science Queensland – Samuel Williams), commercial fishing (Jason Thomson, Benjamin Coyne, Daniel Atherton, and Nathan Rynn), recreational fishing (John Bennet, Ken Davis, Kim Martin, Rhyce Bullimore and Phil Laycock), seafood processor/wholesaler (Matt Vujica), conservation (Simon Miller), Department of Environment and Science (Alastair Freeman, in lieu of Justin Meager) and Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (Thomas Hatley).

  Apologies for this meeting were: Allan Bobberman, Ben Gilliland and Brian Singleton.

  Please note: The conservation member finalised their comments after the meeting, as agreed with other working group members. Only minor changes were made.

• 6 October 2022

  The east coast inshore fishery working group met online on 6 October 2022 for an out of session meeting to discuss the findings of the black jewfish stock assessment and to provide advice in line with the harvest strategy.

  Rachel Janes (Stock Assessment Scientist, Fisheries Queensland) provided members with a presentation and summary of key findings of the black jewfish stock assessment.

  The working group discussed the total allowable catch (TAC – all sectors) for 2023 season, to commence on 1 January 2023. Members all agreed with the precautionary approach of setting the TAC at 90 tonnes for the 2023 season, as recommended in the stock assessment.

  Noting the complex history of recreational and commercial catch shares for black jew fish, members debated initial sectoral catch share allocation to inform the total allowable commercial catch (TACC) for the 2023 fishing season. The recreational members’ support for catch share was either 40:60 or 50:50 (per cent, commercial:recreational), with most supporting 50:50. It was generally agreed amongst the commercial members to support 70:30 (per cent commercial:recreational). Depending on the outcome of the sectoral catch shares, the TACC would therefore range between 36 tonnes (40% commercial) and 63 tonnes (70% commercial).

  The members agreed that recreational fishing access no longer be linked to the TACC, and that black jewfish would remain open to the recreational sector regardless of if the TACC was reached.

  The working group reinforced the importance to implement bladder tagging to help address black marketing issues.

  Most members supported a temporal spawning closure to complement the recommendation of increasing the TAC. The black jewfish research project confirmed that the species spawn over four months (November – February) and this would be considered the optimal scientific window for protecting spawning stock. However, from a practical point of view, many members showed strong support for the spawning closure to align with the barramundi closure.

  The GBRMPA member noted that the full four-month temporal spawning closure as recommended by the stock assessment as critical to increasing the harvest of the species.

  Some recreational members noted that increasing the recreational in-possession limits (from one fish per person to three fish per person) with consideration of a limit of 1 fish more than 120cm could be an option in the future.

  The working group appreciated having robust scientific results to inform the discussion and future decisions of the fishery.

  Apologies for this meeting were: Simon Miller, Brett Depper, Jason Thompson, Matt Vujica, Justin Meagher, Ben Coyne, Brian Singleton.

  The east coast inshore fishery working group members are: Fisheries Queensland (Fill in Chair – Sue Helmke, Principal Fishery Manager – Tony Ham, Senior Fishery Manager – Jeffrey Ikin, A/Fishery Manager – Cherelle Broughton, QBFP – District Manager - Brett Depper and Investigator - Robert Marsh, Agri-Science Queensland – Samuel Williams), commercial fishing (Jason Thomson, Benjamin Coyne, Daniel Atherton, and Nathan Rynn), recreational fishing (John Bennett, Ken Davis, Kim Martin, Rhyce Bullimore and Phil Laycock), seafood processor/wholesaler (Matt Vujica), conservation (Simon Miller), Department of Environment and Science (Justin Meager), Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (Thomas Hatley) and Indigenous fishing (Brian Singleton).

Terms of reference

The Queensland Government is committed to ensuring fisheries resources are managed in a sustainable and responsible manner that recognises the interests of all Queenslanders. An important part of fisheries management is stakeholder engagement through working groups.

Working groups provide advice within the scope of this terms of reference, which is considered alongside advice, information and requirements from Fisheries Queensland, the Sustainable Fisheries Expert Panel and other government agencies, as well as feedback from public consultation. Collectively, this informs decisions on the management of our fisheries.

Queensland’s east coast inshore fishery is a multi-species, multi-gear fishery operating in all tidal waters from the tip of Cape York to the New South Wales border. The fishery spans 5,300km of coastline and around 75 major river systems with numerous smaller waterways providing access. A component of the fishery also occurs in waters where shark and grey mackerel are targeted.

Most of the commercial catch comes from a variety of different netting methods (e.g. tunnel, mesh, seine); however, many species are also taken commercially by line fishing. Many of the target species are also taken by recreational and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander fishers, so there is significant competition for access to fisheries resources and strong community expectation for sustainable management. Given the fishery includes the use of netting apparatus by all sectors, minimising the risk of interaction with protected species and bycatch are areas for ongoing improvement.

The fishery is divided into five management regions, which enables management to be adjusted at a regional scale as required.

Purpose of the working group

The working group will provide advice on the operational aspects of the management of fishing in the east coast inshore fishery.

Objectives

1. To assist with implementation of an east coast inshore harvest strategy and protected species management strategy, including advice on management options and fishing rules, consistent with the Queensland harvest strategy policy and the Fisheries Act 1994.
2. To provide general advice to Fisheries Queensland on any operational matters, emerging issues and general management of Queensland’s east coast inshore fishery.

Working group roles

The role of working group members is to:

• provide operational advice to Fisheries Queensland on particular fisheries, management and fishing methods
• assist with the implementation of harvest strategies and protected species management
• consider information and provide advice on fishery performance (e.g. catch rates, fishing power)
• assist with identifying ways to best manage broader ecosystem impacts of fishing
• provide advice on emerging issues (e.g. compliance, data, legislation, research) and meeting Wildlife Trade Operation approval conditions under the Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999
• disseminate factual information back to a broad range of other stakeholders in the fishery and provide other stakeholders’ feedback to the working group for discussion.

The role of Fisheries Queensland is to:

• provide direction for working groups in the form of a work program
• arrange meeting times and provide logistical support for meetings
• prepare and distribute meeting materials to support the effective operation of the working group
• provide information and data to support the work of the working group
• provide a point of communication between the working group, other working groups and the Sustainable Fisheries Expert Panel in accordance with each terms of reference
• maintain communication with the working group members at least every three months.
• establish sub-working groups through a similar expression of interest and appointment process (particularly to support regional representation of issues) that report to the working group to assist with implementation of harvest strategies and protected species management in Queensland and/or support improved co-management of fisheries resources (e.g. regional harvest strategy workshops).

Links between the working group and regional workshops

The working group will be responsible for considering advice and recommended fisheries management options raised through the sub-working groups (e.g. regional harvest strategy workshops) and coordinating advice on the management of the east coast inshore fishery. To facilitate communication between the various groups, communiques will be published for workshops on the working group web page and a member from each of these sub-working groups will be a member of the working group.

Obligations and responsibilities of members

Being a working group member has important obligations and responsibilities. In accepting the appointment, members must be prepared to:

1. contribute knowledge of, and experience, in Queensland’s fisheries
2. consult with stakeholder peers through port-level or regional associations and networks, representative bodies and other avenues as necessary to ensure as many stakeholder views as possible are considered as part of working group discussions – members will be asked to report on broader views, not just their view as a member, including how the feedback was gathered and who it represents
3. constructively participate in discussions to achieve acceptable outcomes
4. respect the views expressed by other members
5. act in the best interests of the fishery as a whole, rather than as an advocate for any particular individual, organisation, interest group or regional interest
6. avoid pursuing personal agendas or self-interest, and participate in discussion in an objective and impartial manner
7. promptly advise the Chair in writing (or announce at the start of a meeting) of any conflict-of-interest issues that arise, including those that may be perceived by others or have the potential be a conflict, subsequent to appointment
8. conduct themselves in a manner that is consistent with the Queensland community’s expectations for reasonable conduct at all times – this requires a commitment to honest, fair and respectful engagement, including showing respect towards all persons involved in working group business.

Unreasonable behaviour will not be accepted. An appointed member may be removed from a meeting or in the case of serious and/or repetitive conduct removed from a working group if their conduct is contrary to the role, obligations or responsibilities as a working group member.

In either circumstance, the appointed Chair will provide a verbal warning if unreasonable behaviour is displayed at a meeting. Following this, the Chair has discretion to remove a person from the meeting. A record should be made in the meeting notes. If the unreasonable behaviour is displayed at a number of meetings and/or associated with working group business outside a meeting, the appointed Chair will write to the member to provide an opportunity to remedy the behaviour. If there is no change in behaviour or remedy, the Chair will refer the matter to the Executive Director, Fisheries Queensland, for formal review of the member’s membership.

Unreasonable behaviour includes abusive, threatening and other behaviours that may also become ‘unreasonable’ when, because of its nature or frequency it raises health, safety, resource or equity issues for those participating in the working group or others engaging with working group business.

Abusive behaviour is defined as directed at the individual, including foul, racist, sexist or demeaning language. Aggressive behaviour includes angry outbursts, which although not directly or explicitly threatening, are in an intimidating tone and intensity. Threatening behaviour is specific or explicit statements that a reasonable person would interpret as a real and serious communication of an intent to inflict harm on the person receiving the call or another person, or employees of the organisation in general, or to inflict damage or take other hostile action against departmental or meeting location property.

Other actions or behaviours which may, depending on the circumstances, be considered unreasonable conduct include unrelenting/ repetitive contact (excessive contact, refusing to accept an outcome, lodging the same claim over again), demanding conduct (demanding a different outcome, demanding impossible, impractical disproportionate outcomes), unreasonable lack of cooperation (withholding or providing incomplete information, intentionally providing overwhelming volumes of information) and unreasonable arguments (argumentative or irrational conduct, conspiracy allegations, making vexatious complaints).

Meeting administration

The operation of the working group will consist of regular meetings via online meeting platforms (i.e. Microsoft Teams) or in person where resources allow.

Fisheries Queensland will prepare the agenda, including an opportunity at the start of each meeting for members to raises concerns, and supporting documents 14 days ahead of each meeting. Review of these documents will be required prior to the meeting in order to participate effectively.

The appointed Chair will manage the meeting according to the agenda, review status of action items from previous meetings, ensure a summary and actions for each agenda item are recorded and a communique for the meeting is prepared. The Chair will also address any conflicts of interest and manage the conduct of all members and observers present at the meeting.

Fisheries Queensland will publish the communique online within three days of the meeting and notify other stakeholders of its publication. Within 14 days of the meeting, Fisheries Queensland will prepare meeting notes and circulate them to members, allowing 14 days for member comments before being finalised. Where required, action items will be followed up by Fisheries Queensland to seek to resolve them and any operational issues tabled by the working group ahead of the following meeting.

Sensitive information and non-disclosure

Some information that is sensitive in nature is provided to working group members to enable them to provide the best advice to Fisheries Queensland on the specific fishery. Given this, members may be asked to:

• exercise tact and discretion when dealing with sensitive issues – if a member is unsure or concerned about the disclosure to non-members, the member must seek advice from the Chair
• act honestly and exercise care and diligence in the discharge of their duties at all times and not make improper use of working group information – improper use would be if a member gains an advantage either directly or indirectly (financial or otherwise) over another person or causes detriment to the working group’s work or to another person
• not publish or communicate to any person, that they are not authorised to publish or communicate, any information that comes to their knowledge or possession because they are a member of the working group.

If sensitive information is used as part of a working group meeting, Fisheries Queensland will advise working group members to help them comply with these requirements.

Conflict of interest

A conflict of interest occurs when private interests interfere, or appear to interfere, with the performance of official duties. All members must perform their role/contribute in a fair and unbiased way, ensuring that decisions made are not impacted by self-interest, private affiliations, or the likelihood of gain or loss for them or others. Private interests include personal, professional or business interests, as well as the interests of individuals that you associate with, such as family, dependants and friends.

Conflicts of interest fall into three categories – actual (there is a direct conflict between your current duties and your existing private interests), potential (your role and private interests could conflict in the future) and perceived (it could appear that your private interests could improperly influence the performance of your role). Conflicts of interest can be pecuniary (if there is a reasonable likelihood of financial loss or gain) or non-pecuniary (if there is no financial component, but may involve self-interest, personal or family relationships or other affiliations).

All conflicts of interest (actual, potential and perceived) must first be identified and declared to the Chair. Steps can then be taken to appropriately manage and resolve the matter in the public interest. Having a conflict of interest alone is not considered misconduct. However, it is important is that members are open about the conflict of interest, how the conflict of interest is managed and ensuring a conflict of interest is resolved in the public interest. Once reported, the Chair will then make an assessment about what action, if any, is required to manage the conflict of interest. Members must actively participate in the process to manage or resolve conflicts of interest in the public interest and adhere to all agreed resolution strategies. If the circumstances of a member change, they should consider whether this brings about any new conflicts of interest, or changes to an existing conflict of interest.

Sitting fees

Participation on the working group is on a voluntary basis – no sitting fees will be paid.

Travel costs

Members are eligible to be reimbursed for reasonable out-of-pocket expenses, including domestic travel and accommodation costs.