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BUDGET 2019: $9.7 million to Land the Big One

Office of the Chief Minister

Budget 2019 will invest $9.7million towards improving recreational fishing for Top End fishos and tourists.

The funding - which is part of the Territory Labor Government’s five-year $50 million investment in recreational fishing - will create local jobs, improve access and infrastructure, and increase fish stocks.

In 2019/20, key elements of the investment include: 

·        $300,000 for the Darwin region Fish Stocking Program ($900,000 over the 5-year program)

Stocking dams and lakes in the Palmerston and greater Darwin area, helping to build strong fish stocks and access to land based fishing for young anglers.

·        $2Million towards artificial reefs and fish aggregation devices ($9.5M over the 5-year program)

Construction of four reef structures to create an environmentally friendly habitat that attracts fish, helps build fish stocks and creates new fishing hot spots.

·        $650,000 for a recreational fishing survey ($1.7M over the 5-year program)

To help inform fisheries management plans and priorities for fishing related infrastructure

·        $400,000 in recreational fishing grants ($1M over the 5-year program)

To support our community-based fishing clubs with local family-friendly fishing events and bush communities to develop new business opportunities linked to fishing related tourism.

Projects already completed as part of the $50M funding include the upgrade of the Shady Camp boat ramp, installation of Dinah Beach boat ramp CCTV cameras and toilets, Middle Arm boat ramp car park upgrade, sealing the Corroboree Billabong road, replacing the Manton Dam barramundi net, upgrading the Melville Bay boat ramp, undertaking a land-based fishing platform consultancy and installing Dundee Beach boat ramp lighting.            

Quotes from Minister for Primary Industry and Resources, Paul Kirby:

“Investing in recreational fishing is investing in jobs for Territorians. That’s why the Territory Labor Government allocated $50 million over five years for projects to improve the industry.

“Providing more recreational fishing opportunities will boost the sector by encouraging more locals and tourists to fish Territory waters. All associated industries, such as boat servicing, fuel and supplies and fishing tourism will benefit from growing the sector.

“Our annual fish re-stocking program, as well as the construction of four artificial reefs and deployment of fish aggregation devices will continue to make the Top End a go-to destination for fishos.” 

Media Contact - Hannah Farmer - 0428 497 154


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