Keith Lusher 01.06.26
What started as a controversial fishing ban in Western Australia turned into a highly visible protest this week when piles of shark heads were dumped outside a government office in a blunt message from fishers who say they are fed up with being ignored.
The situation began in early December when the Western Australian government announced sweeping new restrictions on demersal fishing. The rules permanently shut down commercial fishing for demersal species and placed a long-term ban on recreational fishing along roughly 560 miles of coastline. The affected stretch runs from Kalbarri, a coastal town north of Perth, down to Augusta near the state’s southwestern corner.
Demersal fish are species that live and feed near the ocean floor rather than roaming the open water. In Western Australia, that includes popular fish such as pink snapper, dhufish and red emperor. These fish support commercial fleets, charter operations and local seafood markets and are deeply tied to coastal communities.
The ban officially took effect on January 1. State officials say stock assessments showed severe population declines and that urgent action was needed to protect the fishery for future generations.
Fisheries Minister Jackie Jarvis said the decision followed extensive consultation and announced a $29.2 million support package to help ease the impact. That funding includes license buybacks and assistance for businesses affected by the closures.
Still, the response from fishers was swift and loud. Commercial operators, charter captains, and seafood businesses warned the ban would wipe out jobs and reduce access to locally caught fish. Some restaurant owners have already said they expect to rely more heavily on imported seafood. Several fishing companies have also launched legal challenges, arguing the shutdown goes too far.
Frustration boiled over this week in Margaret River, a town about 170 miles south of Perth known more for wine and surf breaks than protests. Roughly 440 pounds of shark heads and fish remains were dumped outside Minister Jarvis’s electorate office. Fishing overalls were left behind with a handwritten message addressed directly to the minister.
Western Australia Police have charged three men in connection with the incident. The charges include depositing litter without consent, trespass, firearms offences, and drug possession. All three are scheduled to appear in Bunbury Magistrates Court on January 22. Police say the investigation is still ongoing.
Political leaders have criticized the protest itself while acknowledging why tempers are running high. WA Nationals leader Shane Love said he does not support the actions but understands the frustration. Premier Roger Cook has continued to defend the ban, calling it a tough but necessary move to protect fish stocks.
For many fishers, the dispute feels familiar. While the setting may be Western Australia, the underlying issue resonates far beyond its shores. Across coastal communities worldwide, people who rely on fishing say they are increasingly caught between conservation policy and the reality of putting food on the table.
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