12/05/2026
I have written a letter to 9 ministers regarding the disallowance of the fishing bans implemented recently. The below letter is one of the ministers reply.
Dear Mr Edwards,
Thank you very much for taking the time to write to Hon Maryka Groenewald regarding the current fishing regulations and the upcoming disallowance motion.
Hon Maryka appreciates hearing directly from members of the community and small business operators such as yourself who are seeing firsthand the impact these decisions are having across recreational fishing, regional communities and associated industries.
The points you raise regarding the importance of fishing to family life, mental wellbeing, community connection and the broader Western Australian lifestyle are very much understood and acknowledged.
Maryka has been speaking with a number of organisations and stakeholders connected to the fishing sector, and many of those conversations have been very helpful in understanding the concerns being raised from both recreational and commercial perspectives.
Alongside this, she has also reviewed some of the Government reports relating to sustainability concerns surrounding demersal fish stocks.
Hon Maryka recognises the importance of ensuring fish populations remain sustainable for future generations, and she is mindful that there are areas where demersal fishing pressures are significant and require responsible management.
At the same time, she is equally mindful of the effect these decisions are having on fishing families, charter operators, tackle businesses, tourism operators, accommodation providers and regional communities throughout Western Australia.
Your comments regarding fishing as an important contributor to mental health and family connection reflect concerns many others have also shared with our office. Maryka understands that for many Western Australians, fishing is not simply about catching fish, but forms part of a broader way of life and community identity.
It is because of these competing considerations that Hon Maryka believes there is a need to find sensible middle ground that properly balances sustainability of fish stocks with the livelihood, wellbeing and traditions of West Australian fishing communities and families.
In light of this, Hon Maryka intends to support the disallowance motion relating to the West Coast Bioregion demersal fishing ban. However, she also believes there remains a strong need for ongoing consultation, transparency and practical long-term solutions that fairly consider all stakeholders involved.
Maryka will continue monitoring the issue closely and is relying on the organisations and stakeholders she has been engaging with to continue keeping her informed as matters progress.
Thank you again for taking the time to write and share your perspective and concerns.
Warm regards,
Candice Parsons | Electorate Officer for the office of:
Hon Maryka Groenewald MLC for Western Australia
Legislative Council of Western Australia
Parliament House, 4 Harvest Terrace | West Perth WA 6005
