Multiple fishing charter companies have shared their desperation with 6PR, saying their businesses risk going under without the inclusion of fishing licenses.

The companies state that the “significant changes to operations” sustainable catch laws will force upon them will ruin their ability to be profitable.

Press PLAY to hear more about charter companies’ concerns over fishing licenses

Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development Development Aquatic Resource Director Nathan Harrison told Millsy and Karl on 6PR Breakfast he understood the concerns, but the reductions were necessary to maintain sustainable populations of demersal scale fish in particular.

“I fully appreciate that when you look at the significance of the catch reductions that are required, it has had an impact and will continue to have an impact,” Mr Harrison said.