A MANDATORY safety measure has been flagged for rock fishers, though it remains unclear exactly where or how it will be enforced.
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Primary Industries Minister Niall Blair announced this week that he will introduce legislation later this year making it compulsory to wear life jackets at risky locations.
The announcement has been cautiously welcomed by parts of the fishing community, according to Ned Kelly Bait 'N' Tackle's Jason Isaac.
"I think it is a very good idea, as long as they get the regulations right," he said.
"There will be a lot of people who are against because they've fished rocks all their lives and consider themselves bulletproof.
"As long as it's confined to areas that are known danger points and as long as its implemented sensibly it's a good step."
Surf Life Saving NSW will be part of the working group that determines how the legislation will work on a practical level, including identifying high-risk spots along the coast.
Lifesaving manager Andy Kent welcomed the announcement, saying it would have particular benefits for those at risk because of cultural and linguistic differences. His claims were echoed by Port Macquarie's Ryan Rosenbaum, the 2014 Australian Lifesaver of the Year.
"It's definitely worthwhile, even though we don't have as frequent issues as areas like Sydney where there's a more condensed population."
Mr Rosenbaum pointed to the drowning death of a fisherman at Tacking Point in April, 2014 as a recent fatality.
"We've pushed for [mandatory life jackets] for a while, particularly in places where there is large swell which is a problem if the fishos are wearing lots of gear and they get knocked over."
Senior lifeguard James Turnham said Port Macquarie-Hastings Council welcomed the flagged change.
"To know they'll been mandatory is a huge comfort and will make a huge difference."
Minister Blair's spokeswoman said questions about where the proposed legislation will be enforced, and by whom, will be answered "by the working group which meets for the first time this month".
There will be a one-year grace period after the legislation is adopted until the new law is enforced.