Successful joint response increasing pressure on illegal foreign fishers in Australian waters
This is a joint media release between the Australian Border Force (ABF) and the Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA).
In separate actions over a 48-hour period last week, the Australian Border Force, through Maritime Border Command (MBC), intercepted seven illegal foreign fishing vessels with a total of 51 crew onboard in waters off the Northern Territory and Western Australian coastlines.
The interceptions occurred before the vessels had a chance to fish and cause damage to Australia's fishing resources.
On Monday (14 October 2024), MBC intercepted:
- Eight fishers on a vessel at Barracouta Shoal near Ashmore Island, north of Broome, WA;
- Seven fishers on a vessel at Cape Londonderry within the North Kimberley Marine Park, WA;
- Six fishers on a vessel at Trepang Bay, northeast of Darwin, NT; and
- Thirteen fishers on two vessels at Cartier Island, north of Broome, WA.
On Tuesday (15 October 2024), MBC intercepted:
- Five fishers on a vessel at Ashmore Island north of Broome, WA; and
- Twelve fishers on a vessel at Croker Island, northeast of Darwin, NT.
In consultation with the Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA), MBC officers boarded and inspected all seven fishing vessels, conducting legislative forfeitures and seizing a variety fishing-related equipment.
The vessels and their crew were subsequently escorted out of Australian waters.
This financial year, MBC and AFMA have successfully conducted 83 foreign fishing vessel interceptions and successfully prosecuted 48 Indonesian fishers in Australian courts.
Information about suspicious activity which may impact the security of Australia's borders can be provided to Border Watch online.
Illegal fishing activity in Australian waters can also be reported by contacting CRIMFISH on 1800 274 634 or intelligence@afma.gov.au.
By reporting suspicious activities, you help protect Australia's border and the community.
