Protecting WA’s demersal fish populations

Animal Justice Party MLC Hon. Amanda Dorn’s speech outlines support for the Western Australian Government’s decision to introduce stronger protections for demersal fish species such as WA dhufish, pink snapper and red emperor, whose populations have continued to decline despite previous restrictions.

Her speech emphasises that scientific evidence shows stronger action is necessary to allow these long-lived species to recover, while recognising the difficulty of the decision and commending the Government for acting before further ecological damage occurs.

More broadly, her speech highlights the need to manage marine ecosystems responsibly, noting that ocean wildlife and habitats are not limitless resources and must be protected for future generations.

It reflects the Animal Justice Party’s position that decisions affecting wildlife should be guided by independent science, precaution and long-term stewardship of the natural environment.