Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Tony Burke said the advisory committee was a key part of the Government’s three-year, $2 million Recreational Fishing Industry Development Strategy.

The strategy was announced by the Government in May this year.

The advisory committee will provide expert input on issues affecting the recreational fishing industry.

It will be chaired by former Northern Territory fisheries minister Chris Natt.

“The Rudd Government supports the recreational fishing industry, which generates jobs and tourism in rural and regional areas,” Mr Burke said.

“The advisory committee advise on issues affecting the recreational fishing industry and ways to support the industry into the future.

"Recreational fishing is a diverse industry, ranging from occasional anglers to those who make a living by providing charter services for game fishing.”

Almost 20 per cent of Australians fish recreationally at least once a year.

In developing a Recreational Fishing Industry Development Strategy, the committee will update the 1994 National Recreational Fishing Policy to better reflect today’s fishing environment.

For more information, phone 1800 665 105 or visit www.daff.gov.au/fisheries/recreational/rfids

Nominations close on Friday, 14 November 2008.