The state government is calling for companies interested in designing, building and installing a new artificial reef off the coast of Ocean Reef.

The $1 million structure, scheduled to be installed by early 2020, was expected to ease pressure on existing reefs, increase fish diversity, attract recreational fishers and divers closer to shore, and boost local trade.

The artificial reef could measure up to 1000sqm and would be located seven kilometres west of Ocean Reef, making it accessible from Hillarys, Ocean Reef and Mindarie marinas.

The King Reef was sunk in WA's iconic Exmouth Gulf to help attract more fish to the area in 2018. Credit:Recfishwest

Artificial reefs are man-made structures placed underwater which act as additional shelter for sea life, providing food sources and a colonising surface for algae, coral and sponges.