There have been renewed calls for an increase in fisheries officers at both Lakes Entrance and Mallacoota, following cuts to positions earlier this year.

Gippsland East Nationals MP, Tim Bull, said Fisheries Victoria removed two positions at each of the locations, leaving only two officers at each, and while the positions they cut were vacant at the time, it took away the capacity to recruit.

“Officers are required to work two up in response to certain matters and if one is away on leave, sick or absent for any other reason, it compromises the ability to act at short notice when required.

“I have sought - as a minimum action – to have one position restored at each location to provide a level of staffing that will improve response flexibility and increase the ability to have a stronger general enforcement presence, particularly in peak holiday times.

“My discussions with Fisheries to put the case for more officers has given me some optimism we might soon see additional resources in Lakes Entrance. I will await confirmation, but if that eventuates the focus will switch solely to getting a third officer at Mallacoota advertised.

“As locals know, Mallacoota is quite remote and needs the resources locally to respond quickly without the tyranny of distance. It is also the home to our abalone industry which is under constant threat from poachers.

“There is considerable evidence to suggest that is increasing from across the border of recent times and it is the very reason we need staff on the ground.

“Both this and to ensure the many visiting anglers are doing the right thing are of paramount importance,” he said.

Caption: The Nationals’ Gippsland East MP, Tim Bull, pictured at Mallacoota where fisheries officer numbers to strengthen compliance monitoring and combat abalone poaching.

Monday, 5 January 2026