News

The Australian Fishing Trade Association (AFTA) has reinforced its commitment to stronger national advocacy by collaborating with the Boating Industry Association (BIA) and other peak bodies to establish the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable (OOR).

Its May meeting, held on the Gold Coast brought together representatives from recreational fishing, boating, caravanning, four-wheel driving, paddle sports, outdoor recreation and marina industries. The session focused on identifying shared challenges and opportunities across sectors that collectively engage millions of Australians and underpin significant economic activity.

The primary objective of the OOR is to align advocacy efforts, pool resources, and strengthen engagement with government at all levels. With considerable overlap in participants, infrastructure, and user groups across these industries, the roundtable offers a practical mechanism for delivering more coordinated and effective policy outcomes.

AFTA highlighted that a unified approach would enhance the sector’s ability to advocate on key issues such as access to public land and waterways, infrastructure investment, regulatory consistency, growth in participation, and environmental sustainability.

Importantly, the combined industries represent a powerful “triple bottom line” contribution – economic, social, and environmental. From regional employment and tourism to community wellbeing and stewardship of natural resources, the outdoor recreation sector delivers substantial value to Australia.

By working collaboratively through the OOR, AFTA and its partners aim to ensure this contribution is clearly recognised and prioritised in government decision-making.

AFTA has commended the BIA for its leadership in bringing the initiative together, describing the Roundtable as a significant step forward in building a cohesive, influential and future-focused voice for the outdoor recreation sector.