Nick Sherry (Tasmania, Australian Labor Party, Minister for Superannuation and Corporate Law) Share this | Hansard source

As I mentioned in my main answer, unfortunately the disease has been discovered in a farm in Tasmania. That farm is under surveillance. Of course, I am aware that the federal department is working closely with both Victoria and Tasmania now. It continues to work closely with abalone fishers, both wild-catch fishers and fish farms. The Victorian government is continuing to manage the disease in wild abalone in Victoria and is working with industries to ensure sustainable fisheries management. This action apparently includes closing areas to commercial fishing and increasing the legal minimum length of black-lip abalone to maintain sustainability of affected abalone stocks.

In concluding, I welcome this, the very first question from the National Party, from the shadow minister. After 10 months it is a very welcome development. (Time expired)