Premier

Building A Modern Peak Fishing Body To Get More People Fishing More Often

29 April 2021

The Andrews Labor Government is working with Victoria’s peak recreational fishing body to ensure the interests of recreational fishers are served by a strong, modern and diverse representative body.

Minister for Fishing and Boating Melissa Horne today announced the outcome of the 2020 Review which will bring significant reform to peak recreational fishing body VRFish.

As a result of the Review, VRFish will increase female representation on the Board to 50% and will ensure greater multi-cultural diversity on the Board, including through Indigenous representation.

Other reforms include greater board membership turnover, increased monthly financial reporting and the adherence to set KPIs such as increased advocacy and research.

VRFish has been in operation for close to 25 years and is funded via revenue generated by the sale of recreational fishing licences.

Through the Labor Government’s $35 million investment into fishing across the state, more Victorians are fishing more often. These reforms are about making sure that VRFish continues to represent the growing community of fishers in Victoria.

The Government will continue to work alongside VRFish as they implement these measures to ensure the Victorian fishing experience can remain a sustainable, inclusive and enjoyable place for all recreational fishers.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Fishing and Boating Melissa Horne

“Recreational fishers come from all walks of life, with a range of fishing interests and we’re pleased that VRFish will continue to reflect the community it represents.”

“These reforms are about ensuring Victorians can continue to be represented by a strong fishing body that works to improve the fishing experience here in Victoria and gets more people fishing more often.”

Quote attributable to Chair of VRFish Rob Loats

“We will continue to advocate, evolve and diversify to ensure the broad range of fishers are represented in the future.”

Reviewed 29 April 2021

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