Inland Fisheries (Seasons and Waters) Amendment Order 2020 (Rescinded) (TAS)

The case concerning the Inland Fisheries (Seasons and Waters) Amendment Order 2020 involved the Tasmanian government and several interveners, including recreational fishing and aquaculture groups. The dispute centred around the amendment order's changes to fishing seasons and waters, which were contested on grounds of ecological impact and economic repercussions for various stakeholders. The matter was brought before the Supreme Court of Tasmania, which was tasked with determining the validity and legality of the amendment order.

The primary legal issues the court had to address included whether the amendment order was consistent with relevant legislation and if it appropriately balanced environmental conservation with economic interests. The court also needed to consider if the amendment order complied with the administrative procedures and whether it adequately consulted with stakeholders as required by law. Another aspect of the case was whether the amendment order provided sufficient grounds for its implementation, particularly in terms of ecological and economic justifications.

The Supreme Court of Tasmania found that the amendment order was not in accordance with the statutory requirements and administrative procedures. The court held that the amendment order failed to adequately consult with stakeholders and lacked sufficient evidence to support its ecological and economic justifications. Consequently, the court rescinded the amendment order. The court emphasised the importance of thorough consultation and robust evidence in making such regulatory changes, ensuring that all relevant interests are considered and balanced appropriately.