Fisheries

Coronavirus support for commercial fishers

Information for Queensland’s commercial fishers affected by significant changes in market access associated with the coronavirus.

Sustainable Fisheries Strategy year 2 progress report

We’re on track for a sustainable fishing future, delivering more than one-third of actions in the Sustainable Fisheries Strategy during the first 2 years.

Changes to the Fisheries Act

Changes to the Fisheries Act 1994 took effect from 28 May 2019. This includes tougher penalties to combat black-marketing and a 20 m shark control exclusion zone.

Find a FAD and have a great fishing experience

Fish aggregating devices (FADS) are anchored offshore to attract fish – find out where they are and how to use them safely

With some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, the Queensland coastline is a great place to swim, surf, fish and go boating. It’s important to remember that sharks live along the Queensland coast, including estuaries, rivers, canals and streams.

Queensland border restriction information for industry and applying for an entry pass.

We are still open for business; however, to manage the risk associated with COVID-19, all of our offices are closed to the public until further notice. There may be some delays, but we aim to minimise disruption as much as possible while we continue to deliver essential services.

Our field staff continue to work and are taking appropriate precautions. Staff entering remote communities to provide essential services are well informed to follow appropriate health and entry guidelines.

For enquiries, call 13 25 23 or email info@daf.qld.gov.au. Dedicated customer phone services, including the Fishwatch hotline (1800 017 116), the National Emergency Animal Disease Hotline (1800 675 888) and the National Exotic Plant Pest Hotline (1800 084 881) are available as normal.

For the latest advice, visit covid19.qld.gov.au or australia.gov.au.

Recreational fishers and boaties – do your part to slow the spread

Queensland is working towards getting our community back to normal while ensuring we continue to slow the spread of COVID-19. Queensland Health has advised it is essential that you continue to do the right thing and abide by the restrictions that are in place.

From 15 May 2020, public gatherings for recreational purposes, such as fishing, are limited to 10 people. This applies to fishing from shore as well as on a boat. If you do choose to go fishing, stay within 150 km of your home, keep 1.5 metres from others and practise good hygiene.

State Government boat ramps currently remain open, and Seqwater and Sunwater dams reopened on 2 May. Check with local authorities about other fishing locations before you head out fishing. For any queries about boating, please contact Maritime Safety Queensland.

QBFP officers are still patrolling and fishing rules remain in place. QBFP are avoiding close contact, conducting interviews and discussions on open deck and cleaning their hands frequently. They have sanitisers on all vessels and are cleaning all internal components of vessels.

East coast black jewfish fishery CLOSED

The annual catch limit for the east coast has been reached. Black jewfish is a no-take species on the east coast for all fishers for the rest of the 2020 calendar year.