Torres Strait Scientific Advisory Committee

Terms of Reference

1. Identify and document research gaps, needs and priorities for fisheries in the Torres Strait.
2. Provide a forum for expert consideration of scientific issues referred to the Torres Strait Scientific Advisory Committee (TSSAC) by the Torres Strait Fisheries Management Advisory Committee (TSFMAC).
3. Provide a forum for detailed consideration of scientific issues raised by Torres Strait Fishery Working Groups and relevant stakeholder representative bodies and advise Torres Strait Fishery Working Groups and relevant stakeholders on the feasibility and merits of suggested research.
4. Develop and update a strategic plan for Torres Strait Fisheries research.
5. Solicit and review research proposals in line with the strategic plan and recommend proposals for implementation to the AFMA Research Committee (ARC) and other relevant funding organisations.
6. Provide other advice to the TSFMAC on matters consistent with TSSAC functions.
7. Review research / consultancies, stock assessments, and other reports and outputs relevant to Torres Strait fisheries and advise the TSFMAC and Fishery Working Groups, on their technical merit.
8. Advise the TSFMAC and Fishery Working Groups on the management implications identified by the research projects or the TSSAC’s own assessment of fisheries data.
9. Convene Fisheries Assessment workshops as appropriate to review and address assessment needs for Torres Strait fisheries and recommend research priorities for future assessments.
10. Provide advice to research providers and the TSFMAC on appropriate mechanisms and protocols for engaging research providers in the Torres Strait fisheries.
11. Provide advice on effective delivery of research results to stakeholders.
12. Provide advice on a range of issues for the Torres Strait Prawn Fishery, including stock assessment advice.

Page last updated 22 May, 2009