Fishers must report all catch – even catch for personal use

The Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA) is reminding fishers that ‘take home packs’ no longer exist.  

In 2014, the arrangements that allowed fishers in the Southern and Eastern Scalefish and Shark Fishery, and Bass Strait Central Zone Scallop Fishery, to dispose of fish upon landing for personal use without recording the relevant weights was removed.   

If fishers plan to dispose of landed fish for personal use they must ensure all species and weights are accurately recorded in their catch disposal records (CDRs) and logbooks. 

Not reporting catch is an offence under the Fisheries Management Act 1991.  

Fishers found not complying with the rules and regulations will be subject to compliance action which may include on the spot fines up to $2,664 for an individual or $13,320 for a company. 

Accurately reporting all catch is essential to ensure the sustainability of Commonwealth fish stocks.  

More information is available in AFMA’s Quota Administration Policy, which was developed in consultation with the fishing industry and other stakeholders, and was approved in 2012. The policy requires that in declared Commonwealth fisheries, retained fish (quota and non-quota) must be disposed of to a licensed fish receiver.  Removal of personal-use allowances came into effect in the 2014 fishery season by removing personal-use provisions from fishery management plans. 
 

Where can I get more information? 

The Quota Administration Policy can found on the AFMA website. 

If you are having problems finding a fish receiver in a port please call AFMA Licensing on 1300 723 621. 

For further information contact Dan Corrie, Fisheries Manager on 0447 019 916 or email daniel.corrie@afma.gov.au. 

For Compliance information contact Tod Spencer, Senior Manager National Compliance Strategy on (02) 6225 5312 or email tod.spencer@afma.gov.au.