International Compliance

Many valuable fisheries involve fish stocks that migrate or ‘straddle’ multiple exclusive economic zones (EEZs) and the high seas. The depletion of these fish stocks is not only ecologically damaging, but also poses a risk to food security throughout the region.

Managing these fish stocks requires international collaboration and cooperation and AFMA works closely with its regional neighbours to implement measures to sustainably manage migratory fish stocks and deter Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing.        

IUU fishing operations are highly organised, mobile and elusive. Success is best achieved when we work in collaboration to deliver a multifaceted response. From coastal and flag States, to port and market States and States with nationals involved in operating fishing vessels, every country has a role to play in detecting non-compliance and taking effective action.

Non-compliance with the rules and regulations adopted by International Fisheries Management Organisations (IFMOs) can have significant consequences on the ongoing environmental sustainability and economic viability of international fisheries.

Since 2005, Australian Government agencies have worked together to significantly reduce the number of foreign fishing vessels illegally operating in Australian waters.