If I had my breeding tank up and running, and actually had the fish I'd make a nice chunk of change here.

that would explain it then, the govenment can be so cruel.

Why did they put them on the ban list in the first place?

i dont no why they have banned the imports of these fish for because when the bazil goverment build these dames there on about building they are gone to be the ones makeing the fish instinct because they need fast flowing water and the dames will prevent this

The zebra pleco is not included in the Australian import list however it is also not on the noxious species list, nor is it on the 'grey' list.
Whatever zebra plecos are already in Australia before they brought in the import list are fine to stay and be bred from in captivity.

The high price of purchase together with the fact that they take so many years to mature and are tricky to trigger into breeding their tiny spawns of 8 to 15 fry makes them rare here as well.
Many Australian keepers of zebras won't even admit they have them for fear that some lowlives will steal them so that makes it extra difficult to find any for sale.

I hate that. the fact that people have to hide and lock up their fish!

I know 99.99% of people wouldnt but that0.001% of people stresses me out showing people my fish room.