Thursday, 3 April 2025

Eastern Victoria Region

Renee HEATH (Eastern Victoria) (12:47): (1530) My question is for the Minister for Outdoor Recreation. Minister, I have received correspondence from concerned Victorians regarding the restructuring of the Victorian Fisheries Authority. While the government advertises for more highly paid staff to support their wasteful Suburban Rail Loop, they have slashed 18 fisheries officer positions across Port Phillip Bay and Western Port. I am strongly of the view that we need to eliminate waste and deliver a more effective state government to deliver better services, but I cannot support the gutting of frontline staff who enforce the law. Those who are fortunate enough to keep their job will be rebranded as fisheries engagement officers with responsibilities including marketing. With Western Port within my electorate, can the minister confirm how many officers patrolling the area will be lost?