In a nod to the tough economic climate, the State Government has reduced the Department of Fisheries’ aggregate spending to $59.9million in 2009-10 without reducing frontline services.
Fisheries Minister Norman Moore said the reduction from $61million in 2008-09 delivered on the Liberal-National Government’s three per cent efficiency dividend.
He said the aggregate spending for 2009-10 also reflected some increased revenue inflows.
“The department met its efficiency dividend target after cutbacks that reduced office support services, restructured compliance arrangements, cut the use of consultants and reviewed aquaculture research,” Mr Moore said.
“We will continue to make tough decisions to ensure the sustainability of Western Australia’s fish stocks and support effective management of our marine resources.
“Not only does our fishing industry support families and communities throughout WA, our marine environment offers a lifestyle that is enjoyed by hundreds of thousands of recreational fishers.”
The Minister said that under the Liberal-National Government, extra Fisheries and Marine Officers were planned to boost the numbers of existing compliance staff across WA.
The additional positions would come as part of new funding of $3million over four years to deliver additional compliance services to help ensure the sustainability, economic and social objectives for WA’s marine resources were met.
“In terms of asset investment, a new $8.5million complex will be purpose-built in Denham to house the regional offices of both the Department of Fisheries and the Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC),” he said.
“The current demountable accommodation is not adequate for the regional office to serve Shark Bay and the new facilities will help attract and retain officers for DEC and the Department of Fisheries as well as providing the community with better service.
“Co-location of the two departments is consistent with the Government’s aim to reduce costs and duplication of services.”
To raise $330,000 in additional funding, the biennial increase in fees for recreational licensing and commercial applications will go ahead as expected this year.
Licence fees for marron fishing, freshwater angling and net fishing will rise by $2; abalone licences will go up $3; rock lobster licences will increase by $4; and the cost of umbrella (all species) licences rises by $6.
“These are not new fees,” Mr Moore said.
“They are simply increases in line with the rise in the CPI over the past two years.”
