Illegal foreign fishing vessels targeted in new multi-agency operation
This is a joint media statement between the Australian Border Force and Australian Fisheries Management Authority
A multi-agency operation has been stood up in the Kimberley Marine Park (KMP) off the coast of Western Australia to combat unprecedented levels of illegal foreign fishing vessels being detected in the region in recent months.
Operation LEEDSTRUM is the Australian Border Force’s (ABF) additional contribution to illegal foreign fishing in the KMP. Maritime Border Command (MBC) is a standing multi-agency task force that coordinates assets from the Australian Defence Force (ADF), the ABF’s air and patrol vessels and assets provided by the Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA) in the KMP.
Operation LEEDSTRUM will provide critical ABF land-based capabilities to bolster MBC’s increased aerial, land and sea surveillance and response operations to deter, detect, and take enforcement action in response to illegal fishing.
Operation LEEDSTRUM Commander, Assistant Commissioner Kylie Rendina, said in recent months increasing numbers of foreign fishing vessels have been detected among mangroves along the mainland in the KMP, peaking with 65 vessels being sighted over a 24-hour period in late October 2023.
“We are absolutely committed to protecting our vulnerable marine resources and delicate ecosystems through the targeting of illegal foreign fishing in Australian waters,” AC Rendina said.
“All agencies are working alongside each other safely and effectively despite the difficult terrain and weather conditions to ensure we are ready to respond to border threats in the north-west,” Assistant Commissioner Rendina said.
Commander MBC Rear Admiral Justin Jones, RAN, affirmed the multi-agency surge to protect the Australian border.
“Through Operation MARITIME PROTECTOR, the national approach to civil maritime security, and Operation LEEDSTRUM, the ABF, ADF, and AFMA will ensure that our assets can deter, detect, interdict and enforce with all available capacity, capability and powers at our disposal,” RADM Jones said.
“Illegal foreign fishing will not be tolerated in Australian waters. To those engaging in illegal fishing, you will be located and intercepted. You will lose your catch, your equipment, potentially your vessel. You may also be prosecuted for criminal offences under Australian law.”
Mr Justin Bathurst, AFMA’s General Manager, Operations, said that “Australia’s well-managed fisheries are a target for illegal fishers, and such activity undermines the sustainability of Australia’s marine stocks for future generations.
“AFMA works closely with Maritime Border Command to prevent illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing and safeguard valuable fish stocks against exploitation by illegal foreign fishing vessels. Illegal operators face prosecution, large fines and the confiscation and destruction of their vessel.” Mr Bathurst said.
Media contact: Australian Border Force (02) 6264 2211
AFMA Media: 0437 869 860