The issue caused debate locally following the introduction of a new fee structure in Western Australia, which is due to come into effect in early March next year.

A recreational fishing licence fee is already in place in WA and the new fee structure will include an annual $30 standard fee for recreational boat fishing or $15 concession.

For a rock lobster, abalone, marron or net fishing licence the standard fee is $40 or $20 concession. Multiple licenses would attract a 10 per cent discount.

The WA government said revenue from recreational licences would be held in a trust account for the specific use of recreational fishing management such as fisheries compliance, community education and research.