WCFC Calls for Removal of the Eastern Sea Garfish Vicinity Rule
- Industry Voice
- Jul 20
- 1 min read
On 20 July 2026, the Wild Caught Fishers Coalition submitted a briefing report to DPIRD and CommFish NSW calling for a review of the Eastern Sea Garfish immediate vicinity rule.
The current rule requires a skipper to remain physically beside landed garfish until the final accurate weight has been reported. WCFC supports accurate catch reporting and quota accountability, but questions whether continuous physical attendance is necessary or proportionate.
The report found that the fishery is small, concentrated and consistently underutilised, while no published garfish-specific evidence was identified showing that the vicinity rule was needed to address a material compliance problem.
WCFC also highlighted the practical burden of the rule. It can strand a skipper at a landing point, prevent a return to fishing and create unnecessary double handling of a delicate chilled product.
WCFC has proposed a simpler model. Fishers would continue to submit an estimated landing report and a final accurate weight, but once the estimate is accepted, the skipper could leave the catch with crew, a driver, co-operative, processor or buyer and return to the water. Final weights could then be audited against established market and buyer records.
WCFC has asked DPIRD and CommFish to directly consult affected quota shareholders and active operators, review the evidence relied upon when the rule was introduced and prepare an amendment removing the physical vicinity requirement.
The full WCFC report is attached below.
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