Bevan Eatts Condemns Sudden Demersal Fishing Ban in WA

Augusta Margaret River Times 19 December 2025

Summary
Warren–Blackwood MLA Bevan Eatts has criticised the WA Government’s abrupt decision to shut down demersal fishing in the West Coast bioregion, highlighting severe financial and mental health impacts on local fishers and small businesses. The State Government defended the ban as necessary to protect species like dhufish and snapper, though federal and local opposition figures have raised concerns about the timing, consultation, and scientific basis of the decision.

Key Points

• Bevan Eatts said fishers and small business owners are facing severe distress, with many fearing loss of income, mortgages, and livelihoods.

• He compared the decision’s immediacy unfavourably with longer transition periods provided for the native forestry and live sheep export industries.

• Eatts called the move “unreasonable and unfair” given existing investments in licences and equipment.

• WA Government said the ban is urgent to prevent extinction of key species and was informed by consultation processes.

• Government is considering “act of grace” payments ahead of formal compensation.

• Federal MP Ben Small also criticised the ban, citing low bycatch rates and calling for federal intervention before licence cancellations on January 1.