Responding to the announcement today that the Western Australia Government will be providing $14.5 million for the state’s fisheries to gain third party sustainability certification, Duncan Leadbitter, Technical Director with Sustainable Fisheries Partnership, said:

“We welcome this announcement and applaud the commitment of Western Australia to achieving high standards in sustainable fisheries. This investment will further enhance the reputation of the region for leadership and excellence in marine management while building stronger links between the fishing industry and the community.”

The Western Australia Rock Lobster fishery was the first fishery certified to the Marine Stewardship Council standard in 2000. This pioneering commitment helped spark a global movement that enables industries and governments to showcase the results of their efforts to ensure sustainable fisheries. 

Mr Leadbitter continued:
“Modern fisheries management revolves around partnerships and the government’s choice of the MSC demonstrates a commitment to open and transparent fisheries management and ongoing fisheries improvement.”