Keep your VMS switched on

Vessel Monitoring System

AFMA’s vessel monitoring system (VMS) tracks the activities of commercial fishers in Commonwealth waters. From 1 November 2011 any vessel that stops VMS reporting will be ordered back to port. Photo: AFMA

31 October 2011

AFMA’s VMS crackdown – a zero tolerance approach to non-compliance with vessel monitoring system (VMS) requirements – is due to start on 1 November 2011.

Tod Spencer, AFMA’s Senior Manager, Intelligence, Planning and Data Management, said, “By now all operators would have received a letter advising them of the VMS crackdown. This is a reminder that the date is drawing closer.

“We have had a number of enquiries from operators as a result of our VMS crackdown mailout seeking clarification of what it means for them. Operators have been advised that they need to ensure their VMS is operating at all times and to comply with any temporary switch off requirements. It is unlikely to affect the vast majority of operators in any way.”

The VMS crackdown is part of AFMA’s 2011–12 Domestic Compliance Enforcement Policy and Annual Compliance Program. During the crackdown any boat with a VMS unit that stops reporting could be ordered to stop fishing immediately and return to its home port until such time that AFMA is satisfied that it is working correctly again.

“In the best possible scenario we would have 100% compliance and AFMA won’t actually have to take any action in regard to boats during the crackdown,” Mr Spencer said.

If you would like more information about the crackdown or your VMS obligations please contact Tod Spencer, Senior Manager, Intelligence, Planning and Data Management on 02 6225 5312 or tod.spencer@afma.gov.au. You can also visit the AFMA website where you will find answers to some frequently asked questions.