The Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA) uses a multifaceted approach that recognises the dynamic and diverse nature of illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing (IUU).
IUU fishing threatens the sustainability and economic viability of fisheries nationally, regionally and globally.
IUU fishing refers to:
• Illegal – fishing that is considered illegal and against the rules and regulations that are in place for that jurisdiction or region.
• Unreported – fish catches that are not reported or not reported correctly to the appropriate authorities.
• Unregulated – fishing that is taking place by vessels without nationality, or in areas without any agreed rules or regulations being agreed to by the country or jurisdiction of the fisher.
In the Pacific, tuna and tunalike species are a key resource for many Pacific Island countries. IUU fishing threatens the prosperity of communities and industry in the Pacific by depleting fish stocks, destroying marine ecosystems, and unfairly impacting the livelihoods of responsible fishers and fishing communities.
Australia is a member of the Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency, or FFA, consisting of 17 Pacific Island countries which cooperate to sustainably manage tuna fisheries in the Western and Central Pacific Ocean. We work closely with Pacific partners to sustainably manage tuna fisheries and address IUU fishing in the Pacific.

On June 5 each year, the International Day for the Fight against Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated Fishing, you can help us make sure our fish stocks are protected for the future by reporting any illegal and suspicious fishing activities you see!
There are three ways to report by:
• calling the 24 hour CRIMFISH hotline on 1800 274 634
• emailing [email protected]
• submitting an online form
Further information about AFMA’s approach to combating IUU fishing is outlined in its International Compliance and Engagement Program 202022.