General fishing permit

You need a general fisheries permit from Fisheries Queensland if you want to engage in activities that are not normally allowed under another type of fisheries authority.

These activities can include:

• education
• research
• environmental protection
• public health or safety
• fish salvage.

These permits cannot be renewed or transferred.

You need a developmental fishing permit to trial alternative commercial apparatus or fishing activities.

Who is eligible

The permit can be held by either:

• individual applicants
• in the name of a company.

All applicants must be 18 years or over.

You must demonstrate how your:

• application relates to fisheries legislation
• proposed activity is consistent with its objectives.

How to apply

1. Write a proposal that describes:
   • the activity being proposed
   • why it is being undertaken
   • where it will be undertaken
   • what equipment will be used
   • objectives and outcomes
   • how current fisheries legislation prevents the activity
   • implications for other stakeholders, including commercial and recreational fishers, conservation interests and the broader community.
2. Complete the application form.
3. Pay the application fee: $367.66.

After you submit

We aim to assess your permit application within 30 business days. Sometimes this process takes longer because the application is complex, or not all the information is provided at the time of application.

Every application for a general fisheries permit will be considered on its own merits.

How to amend the conditions of a permit

1. Complete the application form.
2. Pay the application fee: $36.84.

Every application to amend a general fisheries permit will be considered on its own merits.