Community and stakeholder survey on fishing amnesty in marine park zones

In 2013, the Aquatic Protected Areas Unit within DPI engaged ASR to conduct a study to assess the lifting of a recreational fishing amnesty in marine park zones in NSW. A range of respondents were invited to participate in the study, including recreational fishers, identified key stakeholders and the broader NSW community. Questions focused on how coastal and headlands were used for recreational purposes, what made them special and the issues affecting use. Amnesty options were also explored.

More than 70,000 people were invited to participate. More than 6,600 people took up the opportunity and they came from diverse backgrounds. Results were analysed by respondent segments and types of use. DPI used the results to shape future initiatives in marine park zones and to shape acceptable responses to the recreational fishing amnesty.