Let's talk fish: Examining public judgements of Australia's wild-catch commercial fishing industry

Abstract

Australian wild-catch fishers believe their industry is vulnerable given recent government reforms limiting their access to marine resources and that these decisions reflect public opposition to its practices. This paper presents research that assessed the social acceptability of the wild-catch industry and key influences on those public judgements. Contrary to expectations, survey data revealed a relatively high level of social acceptability for the industry. However, public trust was linked to respondents believing the industry was being effectively regulated and could demonstrate strong environmental stewardship. Negative judgements were linked to respondents with strong environmental values and beliefs about the importance of reducing the industry's environmental impacts. Accepting attitudes towards the industry were linked to higher trust in the fishing industry to sustain future fish stocks and protect marine animals. Australia's wild-catch commercial fishing industry can improve its trustworthiness by continually upgrading environmental stewardship practices and tailoring their engagement with key audiences.