Will the Tas Government get sardines right?

Tasmania is on the cusp of establishing a new commercial sardine fishery, following an IMAS stock assessment estimating a biomass of more than 200,000 tonnes. As the Government moves toward development, TARFish has carefully reviewed the science, the community consultation outcomes, and the Tasmanian Sardine Policy Paper. Our position is clear: Tasmania must take a slow, staged and science‑led approach that protects recreational fishing and ensures long‑term sustainability.

TARFish is pushing for a net public benefit test and a slow, staged rollout, not a rush to 7,500 tonnes. No fishery should open without a harvest strategy locked in, and no catch increases should occur until two DEPM surveys and full biological studies are complete.

Recreational fishing on our north‑west and east coasts is booming. We won’t support a fishery that risks localised depletion or reduces fishing amenity.

Recreational fishers deserve certainty and that means: Science first. Strategy first. Community first.