South Australia will impose strict fishing restrictions across much of its coastline as data reveals the ongoing toxic algal bloom’s unprecedented impact on its ocean species.

South Australian Research and Development Institute figures released on Thursday found calamari, garfish and King George whiting face a “severe decline” in some regions.

Blue crabs have declined and abalone faces a localised high mortality rate.

In response, SA Premier Peter Malinauskas has announced temporary fishing restrictions from November 1 to allow for species to recover.

“The science tells us this unprecedented algal bloom has had an unprecedented impact on our fish stocks, particularly in Gulf St Vincent,” he said.

“It is incumbent upon all of us to ensure that we help to protect and regenerate those species, and those whose livelihoods depend upon them.”

The restrictions include halving bag and boat limits for charter boat fishing in the Gulf St Vincent and Kangaroo Island, and halving bag and boat limits for squid, garfish, blue crab and King George whiting in the Spencer Gulf.

There will also be a temporary restriction on all commercial marine scalefish fishing and blue crab fishing in the Gulf St Vincent and Kangaroo Island.

Restrictions are expected to remain until June 30, 2026, while existing fishing limits on snapper will be extended until June 30, 2027.

Seafood Industry SA executive officer Kyri Toumazos said the state faced “probably the hardest journey that we have had in the history of commercial fishing in South Australia”.

“The decision to look after fish stocks in a trajectory of rebuilding over the next period is the right decision, which we fully support,” he said.

The plan includes fishing fee relief and expanded industry assistance grants and small business grants, a voluntary fishery licence surrender study and discounted boat registration.

Australian Fishing Trade Association independent chair Bob Baldwin said tough decisions were never easy.

“But it is made easier knowing that this is the right decision to support sustainability, not only in our industry, but in our oceans and marine stocks as well,” he said.

SA Primary Industries and Regional Development Minister Clare Scriven said the algal bloom had had a “significant impact” on fish stocks in the Gulf St Vincent and Kangaroo Island fishing zone. Action was needed to give affected species time to recover to allow for future sustainability.

“We have been working closely with the commercial fishing industry to plan a way through this challenging time, with comprehensive support for impacted fishers, as well as a range of measures to support recreational fishing,” she said.

SA opposition primary industries spokeswoman Nicola Centofanti said the Liberals had repeatedly called for a medium to long-term plan to sustain the fishing sector and was “glad to see the government has finally come to the table, eight months after the harmful algal bloom began”.

“It should also be acknowledged that not all those in the industry want to weather this storm, and we are pleased to see the government finally listen to our calls and take the first step towards offering voluntary buy-backs for those who want to leave the industry,” she said.

Thursday’s announcement came after a joint federal and state-funded $102.5 million algal bloom summer plan on October 14. It includes $20.6 million towards restoring the environment, $17.3 million for science, research and monitoring, $48 million for coastal businesses and communities and $16 million towards “ensuring South Australians can enjoy their summer”.

Republished with permission from InDaily