Crackdown on Fisheries Crime

The Government is committed to managing fisheries resources according to ecologically sustainable development principles. Enforcement of management arrangements is important to achieving this outcome. This involves targeting fisheries related crime. The Government funds the 13 FISH (ph 134374) telephone reporting service 24hours a day seven days a week, that provides a cost-effective mechanism for collecting intelligence on illegal fishing activity by enlisting community assistance in monitoring fisheries and providing data to help target compliance operations. Since its introduction in 2003, more than 7,328 calls have resulted in: the issuing of 424 Infringement Notices; 81 prosecutions launched; 982 intelligence reports generated; the seizure of countless pieces of fishing equipment; and a a number of significant investigations undertaken.

A badged Fisheries vehicle which includes promotion of 13FISH.

The Government is committed to continuing the 13FISH offence reporting line and plans to increase emphasis on inland fisheries crime.

Fisheries Victoria uses an investigative and taskforce approach to fisheries crime. Intelligence gathered from the 13FISH reports allows targeting of these operations.

For more information on illegal fishing and how you can help see our Illegal Fishing webpage.