The proposal is for the production of the sixth edition of the SAFS reports. SAFS is Australia's only coordinated, national-scale stock-status reporting framework, and as such is a critical driver of jurisdictional collaboration and strategic processes. The current application is to produce the SAFS reports in 2023 and address strategic issues outlined above. In order to ensure the continuation of SAFS beyond 2023, it is essential for jurisdictions to develop ownership of the reports and to embed SAFS processes in core business, and for efficiencies in production and report management to continue to progress. A parallel project to develop jurisdictional reporting services is also underway to assist jurisdictions develop their jurisdictional chapters. As documented in the independent audit of SAFS 2016 (FRDC project 2016-143), the process of compiling SAFS on a co-operative basis between FRDC, Australian government agencies and all fisheries jurisdictions has led to greater joint collaboration, as well as transfers of methodologies and processes, to deliver higher quality and more credible stock status reporting which can be accessed nationally and internationally, as well as assisting in policy decisions regarding changes to particular fisheries management arrangements and in research priorities. Primary drivers for National reporting of the SAFS include: (i) the State of the Environment Report 2011, i.e., ‘lack of a nationally integrated approach inhibits effective marine management’; (ii) a recommendation of the House of Representatives Inquiry into the Role of Science for Fisheries and Aquaculture (Netting the Benefits Report 2012), i.e., ‘producing national status report regularly’; (iii) the Australian Fisheries Management Forum national statement of intent, i.e. a key outcome of ‘Goal 1’ is the National Status of Australian Fish Stocks Report; (iv) the National Fishing and Aquaculture Strategy 2015–20, i.e., ‘Goal 1’ of this strategy will be partially measured by an increased number of fisheries assessed as environmentally sustainable in the Status of Australian Fish Stocks Reports (this includes reducing the number of stocks assessed as uncertain); (v) the FRDC RD&E Plan 2020–25, enabling strategy V (tracking and reporting on sustainability of fish stocks and performance of fisheries).

The issues facing the fishing industry are unique and complex. In order to meet these challenges, good leaders are needed in all areas of influence. It is vital that these leaders use their leadership and build consensus to bring about change. The ARLF develops leaders who can act individually and collectively, in ethical ways for a stronger rural and regional Australia. The investment to develop leaders at all levels of industry and across al sectors, and improve communication between them is critical for a successful and productive industry into the future. Developing individual leadership capacity, in turn will lead to communities and the broader industry being able to meet future challenges and opportunities.

Core capabilities required and developed within the ARLP include: governance, influence, critical thinking, leading through complexity and ethical considerations. These are capabilities that underpin industry leadership and it is through these core capabilities that the industry will be able to respond to current and future needs. Relationships, and the ability of participants to relate to one another and build other relationships, underpin all learning developments.

As an ARLP sponsor, FRDC will be promoted across multiple platforms at multiple stages of the programs. Including:
- during recruitment to seek suitable candidates
- official announcement of the cohort
- in the duration of the program via social media and written reports
- on the arlf website
- on media and collateral at graduation ceremony and comms coverage