Do Aboriginals Need A Fishing Licence In Victoria???
Are you curious about the fishing regulations for Aboriginal people in Victoria? As Australia’s First Nations people, their connection to the land and sea is deep-rooted in culture and tradition. However, navigating the legalities of modern-day fishing can be confusing.
In this blog post, we’ll explore whether Aboriginals need a fishing license in Victoria and shed some light on important considerations for Indigenous fishers. Let’s dive in!
Why Aboriginals Don’t Need A Fishing Licence In Victoria
Aboriginals in Victoria are exempt from having to obtain a fishing licence, as per the Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006. This Act recognises the unique connection that Aboriginal people have to the land and waters of Victoria, and ensures that they are able to exercise their cultural rights without restriction.
The exemption from needing a fishing licence applies to all members of the Aboriginal community in Victoria, regardless of whether they identify as traditional owners or not. It is an acknowledgement of the important role that fishing plays in Aboriginal culture, and the significant contribution that Aboriginal people make to the state’s fisheries.
The exemption from obtaining a fishing licence does not mean that Aboriginal people are free to fish whenever and wherever they please. There are still rules and regulations that must be followed, such as size and bag limits, and closed seasons. These restrictions are in place to ensure sustainability of fish stocks, and to protect vulnerable species.
Aboriginal people who wish to fish commercially must obtain a permit from the Victorian Fisheries Authority. This permit allows them to sell their catch, and helps to regulate the commercial fishing industry. The permit fee is waived for Aboriginal fishers, in recognition of their cultural rights.
Who Are Aboriginals?
Aboriginals are the original inhabitants of Australia. They have a unique culture and way of life that is different from other Australians. Aboriginal people live in all parts of Australia, but most live in rural and remote areas.
Aboriginal people have a special relationship with the land and waters of Australia. This is because they have been living on this continent for more than 60,000 years. Aboriginal people use traditional methods to hunt and gather food, which means they have a deep knowledge of their local environment.
Aboriginal people are also known for their art, music and storytelling. These traditions are an important part of their culture and identity.
How Licence Exemption Applies To Aboriginals
Aboriginal people in Victoria are exempt from fishing licence requirements under the Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006 (Vic) (the Act). This exemption applies to both commercial and recreational fishing.
Aboriginal people can fish for food, social or ceremonial purposes without a licence, provided they follow the rules set out in the Act. These rules include:
1- not taking more fish than is needed for the purpose of catching, preparing and eating them;
2- not selling or trading any fish that are caught; and
3- not using any gear that is prohibited under the Fisheries Regulations 2009 (Vic).
Exemption Due To Identification As An Aboriginal Or Torres Strait Islander
Aboriginal people in Victoria are exempt from holding a recreational fishing license if they:
-identify as an Aboriginal person; and
-are fishing for the purpose of taking fish for personal, domestic, or non-commercial purposes.
Aboriginal people must still comply with all other fishing rules and regulations, including size and bag limits. All fish must be returned to the water alive.
The exemption applies to both freshwater and saltwater fishing. It also applies to Aboriginal Torres Strait Islander people who are residents of Victoria.
Other Categories Of People Exempted From Having A Fishing Licence
There are a number of other categories of people who are exempted from having to obtain a fishing license in Victoria. These include:
– Aboriginal Victorians: Traditional owners and members of the Aboriginal community are exempt from holding a license, as per the Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006.
– Children under the age of 18: minors are not required to hold a license, although they may be subject to other regulations such as bag limits.
– Seniors: seniors aged 70 years or over are exempt from holding a license.
– Pensioners and disability support pensioners: these groups are also exempt from holding a license.
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Final Notes
Aboriginals in Victoria are not required to have a fishing license but may need one if they are fishing for commercial purposes.
There are some restrictions on where and how they can fish, but overall, aboriginal people have access to a wide range of fishing opportunities in the state.
