Northern Territory strategic plan for fisheries research and development 2002 to 2006
Since its publication the Plan has provided both the Fisheries Division and the NT FRAB with a firm basis for assessing R&D proposals and R&D projects submitted for FRAB approval and support with FRDC.
However, there have been significant changes in NT Government directions and priorities since 1999 and the Plan is now becoming out-of-date. These Government policy changes include:
? Greater emphasis on recreational fishing
? Increased prominence being given to aquaculture development, both large and small scale
? Increased pressure for research on habitat and biodiversity conservation
? The requirement to report on all aspects of ESD.
As well as these government policy changes, there is also a need for stakeholders, especially from industry, to evaluate the implementation of projects, their outcomes, performance and actual achievements under the Plan.
Also since publication of the Plan FRDC has provided it's R&D Plan in the publication "Investing for Tomorrow's Fish: the FRDC's Research and Development Plan, 2000 to 2005".
The NT fisheries R&D Plan will be revised to take account of these NT policy changes, performance evaluation by stakeholders, to align it with the directions provided in the new FRDC Research and Development Plan, and to bring up-to-date projects that have been carried out since its publication.
Publication costs were kept to a minimum for the original NT Plan by the NT Fisheries Division arranging presentation, art work and printing in-house. However, in view of the higher profile that the revised document will have amongst fisheries stakeholders, a professionally designed presentation is planned for the revised version.
Final report
It was decided that the final Plan would be in two formats, the first would be publication of the full report on the NT D BIRD website and the second would be a summary version to be commercially printed. The later was in summary form to reduce printing costs.
A new Strategic R&D plan for Queensland Fisheries - A "living document" approach to implementation of priorities
The simple list of priorities identified by QFIRAC prior to the current round of R&D was prepared as a short term measure, prior to a full examination of all the relevant issues and the development of a 3-5 year plan.
Since the production of QFIRAC's original R&D Strategic Plan several key stakeholders have reported on completed R&D, or reviewed their priorities for R&D. (refs. 1-6)
Research Advisory Bodies (FRAB) advise inter alia the FRDC on the appropriateness and priority of the R&D. The changes in fisheries management in Queensland reported above in the Background section, and the contents of the reports and reviews alluded to here, suggest that QFIRAC must revisit not only its R&D priorities, but also the way in which it interacts with its stakeholders. This will ensure that it recommends R&D which is timely, of high priority and of use to its stakeholders. The aim is to ensure that R&D is performed by research providers who are informed of contemporary needs, have the best technical competence, and ensure that research results are of use to, and understood by, the end users. It is expected that this exercise will produce a methodology to identify the critical needs for R &D in Queensland, and to ensure that these can be addressed promptly by R&D providers.
References
1. Anon. 1997 Research needs and priorities for the management of Queensland's fisheries. QFMA, Brisbane. 16pp.
2. Anon. 1998. The Seafood industry's strategic plan for achieving seafood excellence. SeaQual, Canberra. 12pp.
3. Kirkwood, J. 2000. Marine Fish Habitat Research. Strategic Plan 2000-2002. A whole of ecosystem approach. DPIQ Brisbane Qld. 10pp.
4. Newman, G 1998. Research Priorities for Australian Fisheries and Aquaculture. Standing Committee on Fisheries and Aquaculture, Canberra. 22pp.
5. Retif, S. 1998. Fisheries and Aquaculture Research Report 1995-97. DPIQ Brisbane. 100pp.
6. Williams, L E 1997 Queensland's Fisheries Resources. Current Condition and Recent Trends 1988-1995.
Final report
Incorporating MAC competencies into the seafood industry training package
Final report
A review of current research needs of the south east trawl fishery
Final report
• the link between the current strategic research plan and industry needs;
• gaps in the current research strategic plan, particularly relating to the requirement of industry to undertake a strategic ecological assessment of the SEF;
• opportunities to engage industry more effectively in SEF research.
Economic Evaluation of FRDC Funding Submissions of 2001-series projects - Evaluation of Selected FRDC Research Impacting the Environment
Final report
Developing a community communication plan and communication resources for the seafood industry
There is a government and community perception that women and regional communities are disadvantaged and require special consideration in regards to developing skills and securing a positive and productive future.
Much of the Australian seafood industry is based in regional Australia where the challenges to the industry include changing fisheries management regimes, physical and climatic environments, financial restraints, and increasing social and political impacts.
The women supporting the seafood industry need more information regarding how to-
organise local WIN activities, look for funding for activities, organise a school and communication education program, tame the media, do displays- for example in shopping centres or at community festivals and fairs, organise seafood festivals such as the Yamba and Geelong Seafood Festivals, lobby for support from communities and community leaders and make better use of communication technologies such as the internet and email.
Uniting women in regional Australia with common purpose and the necessary confidence, and communication and leadership skills is essential in maximising their input within the seafood industry and the local community.
The community needs better information about the seafood industry and seafood for consumption in regards to types of fishing activities, fisheries management, industry environmental and sustainability initiatives, research, careers and training, Indigenous fishing activities, aquaculture, seafood for good health, seafood handling and cooking with seafood.
Changing public perceptions about the seafood industry requires a broad and organised strategy aimed at all levels of the community.
This project provides a coordinated communication strategy for the under-utilised energies of women in the seafood industry, and becomes a core resource for WIN’s activities. The prosperity and longevity of WINSC relies on a high level of motivation among the women to give freely of their time and energies as well as financial and emotional support from the industry. To achieve representation and recognition they need to establish themselves as a credible and productive grassroots movement in the communities of regional Australia.
This project provides support for the skills development of women in the seafood industry to achieve the WINSC vision statement: 'The National Women’s Industry Network is a network of women in the fishing and seafood industry. Network members influence decision making to ensure a profitable, dynamic, secure, innovative and sustainable industry. An industry which is proactive and responsive to the needs of industry and the community (WINSC Annual Report 1999-2000)'.
Final report
The project provides strategies for all levels of the industry to effectively communicate with all levels of the community, including community leaders.
The communication resources provide practical, user-friendly information for individuals and groups to be active in consumer and community education about the seafood industry. It encourages community involvement in all aspects of the seafood industry. These communication tools have enduring qualities and can be used and referred to in many current and future situations.
The whole-of-industry approach extended the ownership and commitment to the processes of community communication. ASIC and WINSC along with SSA, OceanWatch, state industry organisations and various sections of government have assisted in the broad implementation of the Guide and Resources.
Through the collaborative processes in the development, distribution and implementation of the Guide, Resources and workshops, many individuals, groups and organisations have had the opportunity to work together on a proactive project.
Key words: communication, community communication, communication strategies