Data application

Who uses the data?

Fishery researchers engaged in stock assessments (through Resource Assessment Groups (RAGs), supported by fisheries management and Management Advisory Committees (MACs) are the main users of the data. Logbook data is the major component used for most stock assessments. Independent observers, independent data collection programs and catch disposal records provide information which is also used for input into stock assessments. The independent data can be used directly in the assessment or for data verification purposes.

Our Compliance Section use and manage several data collection programs. Catch disposal records are generally used by our Compliance Section for the monitoring and deduction of catch quota from operator's quota holdings. Data collection programs such as vessel monitoring systems, and prior reporting are primarily used by the Compliance section to monitor vessel activities to ensure compliance with regulations.

External agencies and organisations also use Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA) data. Government agencies such as the Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics (ABARE), the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry - Australia (DAFF), Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) and the Bureau of Resource Science (BRS), State fishery agencies and international agencies are all regular users of AFMA data.

Certain collected data is also available to the general public and key stakeholders. Our Logbook Program and Data Management Section provide public catch information such as data summaries and fishing area maps. Summarised data is also available on a cost recovery basis.

Who pays for the data collection?

Industry carries the principal cost of data collection programs. Industry is generally aware of the need for accurate and timely information for management purposes. Emphasis is placed on generating high quality information at least cost.

AFMA recovers 100% of logbook costs and 80% of observer costs from fishing operators. The fishing industry is seen as the principal beneficiary of commercial catch data collected for input to stock assessments. Costs may be recovered from the overall fishery by means of levies or by direct billing of particular operators.

Catch disposal, vessel monitoring and prior reporting programs are managed by AFMA's Compliance Section. Costs associated with these compliance programs, under the cost recovery policy applied by AFMA, are shared equally between industry and government.

Is the data confidential?

AFMA is required to keep all individual logbook data confidential. Catch and effort statistics released by AFMA are generally in an aggregated form to protect data provided by individual operators. Exceptions have been made where fishing may take place under a Scientific Permit and there is prior agreement under the terms of the permit conditions. AFMA may also be required to provide information to courts, when ordered to do so under a court order.

AFMA enters into agreements in the form of Memorandum of Understanding (MOUs) with research agencies such as CSIRO to conduct research and analysis on catch and effort data which contributes to the pursuit of AFMA's legislative objectives. Under the terms of the MOUs, researchers and their agencies are bound by the same confidentiality provisions as AFMA staff.

Page last updated 13 December, 2006