Torres Strait fishers and fish receivers reminded to report their catch

Torres Strait fishers and fish receivers are reminded that they must report all catch on catch disposal records and return them to the Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA) within 3 days.

AFMA Compliance urges all Torres Strait fish receivers to return all completed white copies of catch disposal records without delay.

Torres Strait licence conditions:

• Fishers must land all commercial Torres Strait catch to a licenced fish receiver.
• Fish receivers must complete catch disposal records immediately upon receiving catch and submit the completed white copy of the catch disposal record to AFMA within 3 days of receiving catch. 

Information collected from catch disposal records helps us understand the health of fisheries stocks. We rely on accurate data about fishing activities to successfully manage Torres Strait fisheries, ensuring they remain sustainable for future generations.

Failing to comply with licence conditions is an offence under the Torres Strait Fisheries Act 1985. Fishers and fish receivers found in breach of these conditions may be prosecuted. If found guilty, you could face fines of up to $15,650 for an individual or $782,500 for a company.

Catch disposal records support successful fisheries management, which provides greater certainty for industry and helps fishing businesses grow. 

Report any suspicious or suspected illegal fishing activity to AFMA. Contact our Torres Strait office directly on 07 4069 1990 or call CRIMFISH on 1800 274 634. 

Enquiries can be directed to the National Compliance Senior Manager on 02 6225 5555 or by email to info@afma.gov.au.