Overview
- The 21-month shutdown began on January 1 across roughly 900km from Kalbarri to Augusta after DPIRD found dhufish were about 85% depleted and snapper around 80%–83%.
- Geraldton fisher John Higham chained his boat to a DPIRD gate, saying a $2,000 interim payment and a likely $6,000 licence payout would not cover his losses.
- The state has issued licence‑cancellation offers and interim payments under a $20 million Compulsory Fisheries Adjustment Scheme that requires surrendering licences for compensation.
- Industry representatives are set to meet Fisheries Minister Jackie Jarvis on Thursday seeking an independent science review, voluntary buybacks and allowances for shark fishers.
- Premier Roger Cook maintains the ban is necessary to protect stocks, while Opposition Leader Basil Zempilas signalled likely support for a Nationals disallowance motion; breaches attract heavy fines and mandatory penalties linked to catch value.