The Finocchiaro Territory Government is strengthening efforts to safeguard our waterways and world-class fishing industry, with the introduction of a new fisheries compliance vessel.
The new vessel is part of broader compliance improvements to support sustainability and restore the NT's unique lifestyle.
Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries Gerard Maley said the custom built 5.3-metre vessel named Caranx will increase the range and response capabilities of the Fisheries Compliance Unit.
"By protecting our waterways, we're preserving the NT lifestyle, supporting thousands of local jobs, and strengthening one of our greatest tourism assets," said Mr Maley.
The Department of Agriculture and Fisheries' Fisheries Compliance Unit, which has been operational since March 2024, monitors recreational and commercial fishing, as well as Fishing Tour Operators, ensuring compliance with possession limits and fisheries legislation.
The unit works closely with Aboriginal Marine Rangers, the Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA), Fisheries Inspectors, and other government agencies to identify and respond to compliance risks across the Darwin region, as well as remote parts of the NT.
The latest upgrades to the Fisheries Compliance Unit's operations include:
The custom-built 5.3m compliance vessel, Caranx, designed for river and remote waterway patrols.The retrofitting of the Longtail with specialist compliance equipment for coastal operations up to 30 nautical miles offshore.Enhancements to the Mallarra with thermal and night vision capabilities, enabling it to be used for both compliance and research.
Both the Caranx and Longtail are prominently marked 'Fisheries Compliance', including blue strobe lights to clearly identify them as compliance assets and ensuring their visibility on the water.
"Recreational fishing directly contributes $144 million to our economy, with a further $126 million generated indirectly," said Mr Maley.
"On-water patrols and inspections play a crucial role in deterring illegal activity and promote sustainability, ensuring that healthy fish populations continue to support the economy and the Territory's unique lifestyle."
