AFMA Commission decision on SBT

2 November 2009

AFMA Commission Chairman, the Honourable Michael Egan today announced the decision of the AFMA Commission for the 2009-2011 arrangements for the Total Allowable Catch (TAC) for Southern Bluefin Tuna (SBT). The Commission has set a two year TAC of 8030 tonnes, with no more than 5265 tonnes to be taken in the first year.

In reaching its decision, the AFMA Commission welcomed the decisions and outcomes from the international fisheries management organisation, the Commission for the Conservation of Southern Bluefin Tuna (CCSBT), and believes the CCSBT decisions this year will contribute to the stabilisation and rebuilding of Southern Bluefin Tuna (SBT) stock to an agreed interim target level.

The Commission noted its support for CCSBT’s commitment to develop harvest strategies and decision rules which will see SBT stocks return to long term sustainable levels.

In setting the Total Allowable Catch for the Australian SBT Fishery of 8030 tonnes over two years, the AFMA Commission recognised that the reduction in TAC comes at a time when planning for the 09/10 Australian SBT fishing season is well advanced and as such the setting of a two year TAC will provide flexibility for individual business to adjust their fishing arrangements. These arrangements are reflective of requests from industry for flexibility particularly for the coming season and remain consistent with the framework of the CCSBT agreement.

“AFMA will continue to work closely with industry to implement the new arrangements as quickly as possible” said Chairman Egan.

Statement ends/2 November 2009