The southeastern Australian and Tasman Sea marine ecosystem is undergoing rapid and unprecedented warming, with sea surface temperatures rising at four times the global average. As a result, Australia’s Southern and Eastern Scalefish and Shark Fishery (SESSF) is facing major disruptions, with fish populations experiencing stock declines, and range shifts—triggering cascading effects throughout the ecosystem. While historically targeted species are in decline, previously minor species are increasing in catch volume, creating new opportunities for fishers in this climate-change hotspot.
To better understand these emerging opportunities, we analysed SESSF logbook catch data from 1986 to 2022 using métier analysis, which investigates shifts in species catch composition and fishing strategies. Through multivariate cluster analysis, we characterised changes within fishery sectors, revealing declining diversity in catches and identifying key emergent species within the SESSF. This research provides crucial insights to strengthen stock management and promote long-term fishery sustainability in a rapidly changing marine environment.