Modelling Western Australian Fisheries with Techniques of Time Series Analysis

The project involves the development of a set of time series models to predict future catch, effort and catch-per-unit effort of different key fisheries species. It is planned to investigate the catch-effort, catch-environment, stock-recruitment-environment, etc., relationships and to analyse historical data.

This can allow prediction of future catches of several key fisheries in Western Australia (including western rock lobster, prawns, herring, salmon, tailor). These time series models will provide low-cost effective methods for stock assessment of WA fisheries, especially for low-value fisheries. The time series models will allow better prediction of future catch/effort values and provide alternative performance indicators for fisheries management.

Time: completion June 2004