It is true.

The grouper (U.S spelling groper) has been protected since the mid 1960's.

The rules were catch by line only. Max 2 fish. Min length 30cm and only one over 60cm.

Last year a man was caught spear fishing. He speared a grouper known to local divers. The fish was at least 40 years old (that is how long it was an attraction for local divers so might have been older). He was issued a court notice. The court imposed $800.

I think it was 2 weeks later another man (or 2 men) were caught spear fishing at Vincentia (Jervis Bay). They speared 3 grouper.

There was and still is a lot of public outcry over the $800 fine.

The penalties start with a min $500 on the spot fine. Next is court notice. The Court can give upto $11,000 for first offence. But upto $22,000 and 6 months jail for second + offence or if the offence is proven deliberate.

The Police clearly considered the matter more serious than an on the spot and so referred him to the Courts. But the Court only increased the fine $300. A court fine of $800 is an insult and a mockery. 

Of course the government has no power over the courts. There are things they can do like request a review through the Governor etc. But at the end of the day the court acted in a lawful manner. The court could have imposed the minimum $500.

The government's response to the inaction of the court is a total blanket ban.

Here is a radio interview with the Minister - https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/sydney-breakfast/blue-groper-line-fishing-ban-government/103493150