Help Reduce the Translocation Risk

Translocation Policy

Historically fish species which are non-endemic to Western Australia have been translocated for the purposes of domestic stocking of farm dams, recreational fishing and aquaculture. 

In the past, these fish species were only subject to disease-free certification and the requirement that they were sited/stocked within impounded waters in the State.  However, in recent years, with an increase in scientific knowledge and environmental awareness, the need for a scientific decision-making process covering the translocation of non-endemic fish species into Western Australia has been identified. 

As a result, a risk assessment process has been developed by the Department of Fisheries in conjunction with the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA), resulting in the establishment of a Memorandum of Understanding between the two agencies. This process has developed from a need to provide the appropriate level of protection for the environment, while facilitating the environmentally sustainable development of commercial aquaculture and stock enhancement for recreational fishing. 

Currently the translocation of a fish species non-endemic to the State of Western Australia, or that particular area of the State, into or within Western Australia requires the prior written approval or written authority of the Executive Director, Department of Fisheries, in accordance with Regulation 176 of the Fish Resources Management Regulations 1995.

Written approval may be obtained through the translocation risk assessment process, which only applies to the translocation of non-endemic species for aquaculture and recreational fishing stock enhancement purposes.  Further information and application packages may be obtained from the Department of Fisheries' Translocation Officer on (08) 9482 7385.

It may also be necessary for those wishing to translocate fish species to submit an application for an aquaculture licence under section 92 of the Fish Resources Management Act 1994.  If you are unsure as to your responsibilities, further information may be found through the information pamphlet titled, Do you need an aquaculture licence? 

As indicated in this pamphlet, it is a legal requirement under the Fish Resources Management Act 1994 that a person who keeps, breeds, hatches or cultures fish must hold an aquaculture licence.  If you have any queries regarding an aquaculture licence, please contact the Senior Licensing Officer on (08) 9482 7310.

Significant penalties may apply for contravention of the Fish Resources Management Act 1994 and the Fish Resources Management Regulations 1995.