Torres Strait BDM fishers and fish receivers reminded to report their catch
Torres Strait beche-de-mer (BDM) fishers and fish receivers are being reminded of their requirement to report all catch on catch disposal records and return to the Australian Fisheries Management Authority within the mandated timeframe.
AFMA Compliance urge all Torres Strait fish receivers to return all completed white copies of catch disposal records without delay to avoid non-compliance.
Torres Strait licence conditions
Fishers
- Fishers must land all Torres Strait caught BDM to a licenced fish receiver.
Fish receiver
- Fish receivers must complete catch disposal records immediately upon receiving BDM.
- The completed white copy of the catch disposal record must be submitted to the Australian Fisheries Management Authority within three days of receiving BDM.
Failing to comply with these conditions is a breach of a fisher and fish receiver licence, and 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 up to $15,650 for an individual or $782,500 for company.
Information collected from catch disposal records help to determine the total allowable catch of beche-de-mer each season.
Successful management of our fisheries relies on collection of data that accurately reflects fishing activities, providing greater certainty for industry, supporting industry development, helping fishing businesses grow, and ensuring fisheries remain sustainable for future generations.
You can report any suspicious or suspected illegal fishing activity to AFMA, directly to our Torres Strait office or CRIMFISH on 1800 274 634.
Enquiries can be directed to the National Compliance Senior Manager on 02 6225 5555 or info@afma.gov.au.