So, as a forum representing, in part, the Australian reefing hobbyist, what do you think we can do to stop the sale of these seastars?
Stop buying them, but then that relies on buyers being informed and researching, which many don't. Honestly I'm buggered if I know. I'll say this though, it's one of the reasons I really respect Brett & Richard at Bunarong Aquarium, Frankston. They generally don't stock this type of thing and even with something like gonis, they will not sell them to you unless you can demonstrate a clear understanding of their specialised needs.
In my early days Brett outright refused to sell me something (don't recall what now) so I went elsewhere and got what I wanted. It died of course and it made me really sit up and take notice of the integrity shown at Bunarong. If more LFS were like that, this hobby would be easier for all and the hobby would be much more sustainable.
It's such a shame too because the Sea Biscuit is such a beautiful creature. I kept one for a few years in a tank specifically set up for the 20C-23C temperature range, alas I lost it during a heat wave. These creatures also have a bad habit of jamming themselves in between rocks and once tissue is torn they don't last long. I lost two that way and is the main reason I no longer keep them at all.
They don't 'seem' to have the regenerative powers of some other seastar species.