AFMA is focusing our education and compliance programs on the issue of bycatch in December and January. AFMA is committed to reducing bycatch in Commonwealth fisheries.
Fisheries officers, along with AFMA’s Bycatch team, will be conducting education and awareness sessions in various ports. The port visits will raise the awareness amongst fishers of their legal obligations when it comes to reducing their bycatch, but also their obligations and best practice when handling any bycatch.
Michelle Wilson, A/g Manager of AFMA’s Bycatch team said that it is important that fishers know the rules and that there are a number of resources available to them to implement best practice when it comes to bycatch mitigation and handling.
“AFMA has published a range of helpful and easy to use guides such as Shark and Ray Handling Practices that provide practical advice on handling bycatch,” Ms Wilson said.
“The whole marine environment must be considered when fishing as it supports the commercially important species consumers want.
“Through fishers understanding not only the rules when it comes to bycatch along with the techniques to assist minimise the impact on the marine environment we can help ensure sustainable fisheries for many more years to come.”
Fisheries Officers will also be focusing on bycatch issues whilst on patrol, including speaking with operators to remind them of their obligations when it comes to the handling of bycatch.
Tod Spencer, Senior Manager National Compliance Strategy says its important fishers know and comply with their bycatch obligations.
“AFMA takes the issue of bycatch very seriously, so operators should ensure they are well versed in not only their legal obligations, but best practice as well,” Mr Spencer said.
“Our fisheries officers will endeavour to help operators understand their obligations, but where we find that operators are not meeting these obligations we won’t hesitate to take action.”
More information on the issue of bycatch, including a range of useful guides, is available on the AFMA website.