THE WESTERN AUSTRALIAN COMMERCIAL FISHING INDUSTRY
Western Australia’s pristine coastline produces the world’s highest quality seafood, harvested from clean, carefully managed waters. Our commercial fishing industry drives over $1 billion annually into the State’s economy, serving as the economic backbone for coastal communities from Wyndham to Esperance. With 10,000 Western Australians employed across catching, processing, exporting and retail, commercial fishing isn’t just an industry- it’s essential to our state’s identity, prosperity, and future.
OUR MISSION
WAFIC seeks to achieve its Mission’s objectives in an atmosphere of cooperation, to ensure the value, security and sustainability of commercial fishing and pearling in Western Australia.
Mental Health
Commercial fishing has always been physically demanding, but today’s fishers are carrying far more than the weight of a long day at sea. Shrinking access to fishing grounds, rising operational costs, and rapid regulatory change are adding significant pressure to an already challenging way of life. If you or someone you know is feeling the strain, there is support available.
LATEST NEWS
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25 Aug 2026
Fisheries Research and Development Corporation project update
Read MoreThe Fisheries Research and Development Corporation (FRDC) has provided an update on FRDC-funded projects of interest to the commercial fishing sector that are currently underway in WA, as well as some recently completed projects. Recently completed projects If you would like to further information or to discuss new research project concepts, please contact FRDC’s WA […]
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21 Aug 2026
AMSA National Maritime Stakeholder Forum established
Read MoreThe Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) recently announced a new national industry engagement approach, with the establishment of the National Maritime Stakeholder Forum identified as its centrepiece. AMSA supports stakeholder input to shape topics, identify key issues, and inform the government understanding of sector priorities – supporting more targeted and meaningful engagement. The National Maritime […]
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21 Aug 2026
The Captain’s Table launches WA’s newest seafood dining experiences
Read MoreA vision to deepen connections with Western Australia’s remarkable seafood heritage, celebrate sustainable fishing practices, and build a genuine community of seafood lovers has inspired the launch of WA’s newest premium dining series, The Captain’s Table. Showcasing some of Western Australia’s most sought-after and responsibly sourced seafood, The Captain’s Table brings together acclaimed chefs, exceptional […]
KEY ISSUES
Cumulative Threats
Marine Parks, Spatial Squeeze, Climate Change.
Food Security
Feeding WA, Fighting Illegal Fishing and Seafood Fraud.
Futureproofing
Research and development.
Sustainable Fisheries
Bycatch reduction, Sustainable Fisheries, Digital transformation.
Resource Access
Current EIAs, Fisheries Liaison and Impact Assessment.
Industry Advocation
Stakeholder engagement, regional engagement.
JOIN US
Together, we’re building a sustainable and profitable future for our ocean industries. With your support we can work to provide sustainable, clean, healthy and local seafood to our community.
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