The role of Fisheries Victoria

Fisheries Victoria manages fisheries resources by developing and implementing policies and projects and delivering a wide range of services.

Fishing activities in all Victorian waters are managed under the provisions of the Fisheries Act 1995 and the Fisheries Regulations 2009.

The Fisheries Act provides the legislative framework for the regulation and management of Victorian fisheries. The key objectives in the Act relating to recreational fishing include:

1. management, development and use of Victoria's fisheries and associated aquatic biological resources in an efficient, effective and ecologically sustainable manner
2. protection and conservation of fisheries resources, habitats and ecosystems including the maintenance of aquatic ecological processes and genetic diversity
3. promotion of quality recreational fishing opportunities for the benefit of present and future generations and facilitation of access to fisheries resources.

Fisheries Victoria's works in the context of increasing competition for water, increasing pressure on fish habitats and access and changing demographics. The establishment of clear fisheries management directions is critical to the maintenance and development of the Victoria's fisheries. Fisheries Victoria collaborates with habitat and water managers including catchment management authorities, water authorities, the Department of Sustainability and Environment and researchers to work towards positive outcomes for Victorian fisheries.