Last week the Australian Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Tony Burke, introduced legislation to boost the nation’s powers to fight illegal fishing.
The Fisheries Legislation Amendment (New Governance Arrangements for the Australian Fisheries Management Authority and Other Matters) Bill 2008 will help to protect the country's $2 billion fishing industry.
According to a statement, it gives stronger powers to border protection officers to apprehend ships involved in illegal fishing and creates new offences for Australian citizens involved in poaching overseas.
The new powers relate to officers working for the Australian Customs Service, the Australian Defence Force or the Australian Fisheries Management Authority.
The legislation would:
• Allow officials to pursue and seize vessels which are supporting illegal fishing activities (by providing fuel, freezer storage or other support), rather than just pursue the primary vessel involved
• Require unlicensed foreign vessels moving through the Australian fishing zone to stow their fishing equipment – making it harder for them to fish illegally
• Ensure that Australian citizens engaged in illegal fishing in other regions can be prosecuted under Australian laws
• Deliver on an election commitment to convert AFMA to a fisheries commission under the Financial Management and Accountability Act 1997 and a statutory authority
“Illegal fishing is a dangerous and damaging activity which costs our fishing industry, puts pressure on fish stocks and can spread pests or disease,” Mr Burke said.
“Australia is a recognised world-leader in fighting illegal fishing – both internationally and within our own waters.
“The sustainability of species such as trepang, shark and Patagonian toothfish are at risk from illegal fishing.
“The Rudd Labor Government will continue fighting illegal fishing to protect our seafood industries and our environment.”
It is anticipated that the new AFMA arrangements will be in place by 1 July 2008.
