Recreational Fishing Advisory Committee

The Recreational Fishing Advisory Committee (RFAC) represents the community, fishing clubs, Department of Fisheries, tackle industry, charter operators and commercial fishing industry. Appointed by the Minister for Fisheries, members provide community involvement in the management of Western Australia's recreational fisheries.

In addition to the main RFAC, there are 12 Regional Recreational Advisory Committees (RRFACs), providing more effective two-way communication with grass roots anglers and which provide regional perspectives on management issues. With recreational fishing increasing in prominence in Western Australia, with an estimated 600,000 people fishing recreationally each year in this State, and being a multi-million dollar industry for the State, RFAC and RRFACs play an important role in role in providing advice to the Minister on a wide range of issues impacting on recreational fishing throughout the State.

The RFAC and the RRFACs are advisory bodies. As such, the Minister is not obliged to accept their recommendations, however, in practice the great majority of recommendations from the RFAC are accepted. Should the Minister not accept a recommendation, it is referred back to the RFAC or the RRFAC with comments and a request for further consideration. In the rare instances where the Minister adopts an alternative course of action without referral back to the RFAC or RRFAC, an explanation would be provided. The Minister is not bound to only seek advice from the RFAC or RRFAC. Independent advice may be sought in certain circumstances. Also, the advice of the Executive Director of the Department of Fisheries is often sought as part of the deliberative process.

How is RFAC funded?

Monies raised from the sale of recreational abalone, rock lobster, freshwater fishing, marron and net fishing licences are paid into the Recreational Fishing Trust Account, which funds RFAC expenditure. Certain expenses, such as the issuing and administration of recreational fishing licences, are paid from this trust account, as are some education and enhancement programs.

How does RFAC work?

The RFAC was established in May 1992, following a two-year review of recreational fisheries. The Committee usually meets four times a year for two days. Sub-committees meet as required. The views of the main RFAC are not necessarily the same as those of the individual RRFACs, or the Department of Fisheries. Following meetings, proposals and recommendations from RFAC go to the Minister for Fisheries for consideration and final approval.

RFAC works closely with the Department of Fisheries in reviews of recreational fisheries, with members being involved in working groups. Recommendations from recreational fisheries review are passed through the RFAC. RFAC advises the Minister for Fisheries or its support, or provides alternative recommendations should they differ from the Department of Fisheries.