The Australian commercial fishing industry is facing unprecedented challenges. Climate change is rapidly altering marine ecosystems, shifting species distribution, and impacting fish productivity. This, combined with increasing competition for marine resources from other users of the marine estate, is significantly affecting industry operations and impacting the way AFMA goes about its business. Economic factors are also playing a significant role. High fuel prices, labour shortages, high freight costs, high interest rates, and inflation are all straining the industry's bottom line. These challenges, coupled with growing stakeholder expectations and reporting requirements, are increasing complexity and cost pressures within AFMA.
In response, AFMA is adapting its work to meet these challenges. This includes exploring alternative and more efficient ways of doing business through emerging technologies and reviewing policies and harvest strategies. We need to promote cross-jurisdictional collaboration and explore further opportunities for co-management with industry. We must work together to find practical solutions that will strengthen the long-term viability of the Australian commercial fishing industry. This session offers a unique opportunity to explore these challenges, assisting government, science, and industry to collaborate and drive positive change.