The Crown has mismanaged the scallop fishery. In March 2023 the Minister for Oceans and Fisheries reduced the Total Allowable Commercial Catch (TACC) in the Coromandel scallop fishery to zero. Now, no quota owner, including any entity that holds Settlement quota, is making any money from their shares in this fishery.

The restoration plan provides for a government buy-back of all quota. That means any entity holding Settlement quota will receive a payment in return for the forgone quota.

In recognition of Treaty interests, the plan provides for a negotiated arrangement where those currently holding Settlement quota would receive a percentage of the income generated from harvesters who secure permits under the new regime.