Golden Snapper Recovery Have Your Say: what we heard and what happens next
From 27 March to 26 April, Territorians shared their views through a “Have Your Say” survey, supported by widespread information campaigns across the Territory.
The open survey received 794 responses, capturing detailed feedback from people with a strong interest in fishing and local impacts.
The high level of participation highlights how engaged Territorians are with the issue, with many taking the opportunity to share well-informed views on the future management of Golden Snapper. The Have Your Say responses reflected strong, diverse views shaped by direct fishing experience, with many participants providing detailed feedback on impacts, fairness, and practical management options.
To ensure broad community representation, an independent research company also conducted a representative survey of 456 people using the same questions. Participation was matched to the NT population using age, gender, and location, based on Australian Bureau of Statistics data.
In addition, NT Fisheries received written and phone submissions from industry bodies, businesses, community organisations, and local residents.
During the public consultation process, stakeholders expressed a wide range of views, with many emphasising the need for balanced and effective management.
All feedback is now being carefully reviewed. NT Fisheries will consider survey results alongside written submissions, face-to-face stakeholder engagement, management requirements and scientific information to inform the Government on the most practical and effective recovery options.
No decisions have been made at this stage.
What happens next
A summary of consultation results will be published on the NT Fisheries website after survey analysis is complete. This report will detail what was heard during consultation and how the feedback is being considered in the development of a Recovery Plan.
The results will also be considered by the Coastal Line Advisory Group when making their recommendations on Golden Snapper Recovery to the Director of Fisheries.
Following this, the department will provide a considered response to the feedback and finalise the recovery plan, which is expected to be delivered in late 2026.
For more information visit go to the Northern Territory Government website.
