A multi-agency operation in the Northern Territory was stood up this week to target the increase in illegal foreign fishing vessels being detected in the area.
Operation LUNAR is led by the Australian Border Force as an additional contribution to combatting illegal foreign fishing in northern Australia.
Operation LUNAR complements a similar operation working successfully since December 2023 in the Kimberley Marine Park in Western Australia know as Operation LEEDSTRUM, and the long-running Border Monitoring Officer Program operating in the Torres Strait.
Operation LUNAR will involve a multi-agency task force providing an enhanced posture on-land and on-water, coordinating assets from the Australian Defence Force (ADF), the ABF's air and patrol vessels, along with additional support provided by the Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA).
Rear Admiral Brett Sonter, Commander Maritime Border Command, said the ABF proactively adjusts and monitors its posture across northern Australia through an intelligence-led, risk-based approach, and this was achieving results.
"We are absolutely committed to protecting our vulnerable marine resources and delicate ecosystems through the targeting of illegal foreign fishing in Australian waters," Rear Admiral Sonter said.
"Illegal foreign fishers will not be tolerated in Australian waters and my message to them is clear: you will be found and we will intercept you. You will lose your catch, your equipment, potentially your vessel, and you may be arrested and prosecuted under Australian law.
"Operation Sovereign Borders remains a priority and we are appropriately postured to respond to maritime people smuggling ventures targeting Australia, including those attempting to use common illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing corridors to reach Australia."
Rear Admiral Sonter said an important component of Operation LUNAR included the expansion of land patrols and surveillance, working closely with federal and territory agencies and local communities in the NT, particularly local First Nations communities.
"I cannot emphasise enough how important local knowledge and observations of First Nations communities is in the NT, in terms our informing our work to detect foreign fishing vessels across more than 10,000km of vast coastline."
As of 3 December 2024, the ABF and AFMA have successfully conducted 156 foreign fishing vessel interceptions and successfully prosecuted 83 foreign fishers in Australian courts this financial year.
Anyone with information about suspicious activity which may impact the security of Australia's borders is urged to contact Border Watch. By reporting suspicious activities, you help protect Australia's border and the community. Information can be provided anonymously.
