Late last month, Federal Energy Minister Chris Bowen made a preliminary decision to grant feasibility licences for offshore wind projects off Bunbury:
• Bunbury Offshore Wind Farm Pty Ltd – two feasibility licences covering 526 km²
• WestWard Wind Pty Ltd – one feasibility licence covering 206 km²
A final decision will follow consultation with First Nations groups under the Native Title Act 1993.
Feasibility licences (valid for up to seven years) do not grant approval to construct or operate an offshore wind farm. Instead, they allow project developers to study the viability of their proposal, prepare management plans, and seek environmental approvals. These management plans must demonstrate consultation with existing marine users, including fishers, and outline measures to avoid or mitigate impacts.
Why it matters for fishers
Recfishwest has consistently said offshore wind projects must co-exist with fishing and deliver no net loss of fishing amenity. While the declared area has been reduced and shifted further offshore, the proposed WestWard Wind licence lies close to Naturaliste Reef, one of the South-West’s most iconic fishing locations and a known dhufish spawning ground.
We will continue to:
• Monitor licence applications to ensure fishing access and habitats are protected.
• Push for clear government policy guaranteeing ongoing fishing access in declared offshore wind areas.
• Stand up for WA’s 750,000 recreational fishers and continue to keep you informed as things develop.
