February 21, 2023
A national survey of recreational fishers has shown that one in five adults takes part in recreational fishing every year, contributing 100,000 jobs and $11 billion to the Australian economy.
The National Social and Economic Survey of Recreational Fishers was conducted by ABARES, the University of Canberra and the Australian Recreational Fishing Foundation.
It is the first national survey of its type in more than 20 years.
ABARES Executive Director Dr Jared Greenville said the survey provided a contemporary picture of recreational fishing in Australia.
“A total of 4.2 million or one in five adult Australians were estimated to participate in recreational fishing each year,” Dr Greenville said.
“The number of recreational fishers has increased since 2000 as the population has also increased, however the proportion of fishers has remained relatively stable overall.
“Australians were estimated to spend 28 million days fishing each year. While most recreational fishers fish fewer than five days a year, a small proportion fish more than 52 days a year.
“Recreational fishing was estimated to contribute over 100,000 jobs and over $11 billion per year (including direct and indirect contributions) to the Australian economy.
“Recreational fishers were found to have, on average, higher levels of wellbeing than non-fishers, and those who fish more often have higher wellbeing. Recreational fishing appeared to support positive social connections, nature connection, relaxation and can help achieve recommended levels of physical activity.
“The survey results also showed that most Australians have a positive outlook on recreational fishing, with 79 per cent of Australian adults considering recreational fishing to be an acceptable activity.
“Recreational fishers also contribute to environmental stewardship by picking up rubbish when out fishing, while some participate in habitat restoration activities or donate to organisations trying to improve aquatic health.”
Fishing is one of the major tourism activities in the South Burnett.
A report by BDO in 2021, prepared for the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, estimated recreational fishing contributed $35.24 million to the Gross Regional Product of the Wide Bay Burnett region in 2019-20, with $17.87 million generated directly and $17.37 million through flow-on effects, including retail trade.
