Rising Costs and Supply Challenges for Local Fish
Families looking forward to a traditional fish and chip meal on Good Friday are now facing tough choices. With the cost of locally caught fish rising sharply, many are turning to imported options from distant locations like South Africa and New Zealand. This shift in consumer behavior is being driven by the increased prices of fresh local fish, which have more than doubled in some cases.
The situation has been exacerbated by the state’s new demersal fishing laws, which have significantly impacted the availability of local fish. These regulations have halved catches in certain areas and closed down commercial fishing along a 700-kilometre stretch of the West Coast. As a result, retailers are struggling to meet the high demand during the Easter period.
Imported Fish Becomes More Popular
In the Great Southern region, Albany fish and chip shop owner Trent Brennan has noticed a change in customer preferences. While supply has remained steady, he has observed a significant increase in customers opting for imported fish due to its lower price. “We are offering South African imported fish, and we’ve seen a massive increase in people buying that,” he said.
Brennan also noted that the prices of local fish have risen substantially. For example, a portion of Nannygai, a popular demersal species, was around $28 three months ago but has now increased to $35. This price hike is forcing consumers to reconsider their choices, with many opting for cheaper alternatives.
Struggles in the Fishing Industry
North of Perth, in Geraldton, seafood retailer Brolos Fresh has experienced a dramatic drop in the availability of locally caught fish. Manager Luke Emery explained that fresh fish supply had “dried up” compared to last year, when the store was processing several tonnes of pink snapper caught by local fishers. This year, the business has had to source fish from regions such as the Pilbara, Carnarvon, and Augusta, and even from New Zealand.
“”
Emery noted that even shark, typically considered an economical choice, has become scarce. The price of shark has increased from $20 per kilogram to over $40, making it less attractive to budget-conscious shoppers. He also mentioned that regular customers are buying less, with many now purchasing smaller quantities at a time.
Financial Pressures on Fishers
The financial pressures on fishers are mounting as they navigate the new demersal fishing reforms. Rising fuel prices have added to the costs, making it difficult for businesses like Brolos Fresh to remain profitable. Emery explained that the combination of limited availability and higher logistics costs has created a challenging environment for retailers.
In Albany, Tony Westerberg, owner of Albany Seafoods, expressed concerns about the proposed 50% reduction in commercial catch limits on the south coast. He argued that this reduction would be devastating for local businesses that rely on small-scale fishing operations. “The small amount of fish local operators catch — once that’s cut by 50% — will be devastating for local restaurants and fish and chip shops,” he said.
Westerberg also highlighted the uncertainty surrounding the implementation of the new regulations. While commercial fishers were told that catch limits would be implemented as an annual seasonal line and trap fishery closure between April and September, this has not yet occurred. The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development has stated that the state government is working with stakeholders and will meet in mid-April to help inform the proposed changes.
Looking Ahead
As the fishing industry continues to adapt to these challenges, the impact on consumers and local businesses remains uncertain. With the demand for fish and chips expected to remain high during the Easter period, the balance between sustainability and affordability will be crucial for the future of the industry.
