Grants for recreational fishing

WA will for the first time have more than $1 million available to fund community-driven projects aimed at enhancing recreational fishing.

Generated by WA's various recreational fishing licences, the funding will be made available in the form of grants for new recreational fishing initiatives.

An initiative of the State Government, Recfishwest and the Department of Fisheries are encouraging incorporated individuals, research institutions, fishing clubs and community groups to apply for grants for projects that provide a benefit to the recreational fishing sector.

Recfishwest principal policy officer Andrew Rowland said the funding would be injected into community initiatives such as habitat enhancement, stock enhancement, research and data collection, including the socio-economic benefits of recreational fishing.

"While tertiary institutions are obvious candidates for the grants, other research projects conducted by government departments, fishing clubs and community groups will also be considered," Dr Rowland said.

"This is an opportune time for community organisations to get that great idea up and running or to brainstorm a novel idea that can be developed into a project that will enhance recreational fishing."

Applications which demonstrate the support of local recreational fishers will be given preference while funding will be provided to projects that are beneficial and cost-effective to the recreational fishing community.

A sub-committee of Recfishwest, with input from the Department of Fisheries, will be responsible for recommending funding for the approval of the Minister of Fisheries.

Applicants can apply for a grant of up to three years duration.

Applications close on March 15, and projects are expected to start on July 112.

Forms are available at www.recfishwest.org.au .