International Day for the Fight against IUU fishing

What is IUU Fishing 

Illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing is fishing that takes place outside agreed rules and controls. It includes fishing without permission, not reporting catches, or operating in areas without effective management. 

It undermines efforts to manage fish stocks sustainably, can be linked to organised criminal activity, threatens food security, causes other environmental damage, and robs legitimate fishers of income.

IUU fishing is a global issue. It affects shared fish stocks, marine ecosystems and coastal communities.

On 5 June, the International Day for the Fight against IUU Fishing highlights the global effort to address this issue.  

The Australian Government maintains a strong stance against IUU fishing, particularly in northern Australia. AFMA supports this effort by working to protect Australia’s marine resources and promote a rules-based maritime environment.  

AFMA initiatives in the fight against illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing 

AFMA, alongside other Australian government agencies, works directly with countries across the Indo-Pacific region to combat IUU fishing, including:

• Delivering targeted capacity development programs to strengthen national and regional monitoring, control and surveillance of fishing vessels. 

• Supporting regional fisheries operations and enforcement activities, including high seas boarding and inspections.

• Participating in regional fisheries bodies - which manage and establish the rules for fishing of shared fish stocks - to strengthen monitoring, control and surveillance and compliance. 

• Working closely with neighbouring countries and regional fisheries bodies to share information on vessels detected fishing illegally in Australia’s waters. 

• Delivering public information campaigns in Indonesian regional ports alongside officers from Indonesian agencies. These campaigns have educated over 1700 Indonesian fishers about the boundaries between Australia and Indonesia and the risks and consequences for illegal fishing.

Further information about AFMA's approach to combating IUU fishing is outlined in its International Compliance and Engagement Program 2025-27.  

How you can help