Joint Outreach Campaign in Sulawesi Promotes Sustainable Fisheries

The Indonesian and Australian Governments held workshops in Kendari and Makassar this week as part of an ongoing joint awareness-raising campaign to promote sustainable fisheries and to prevent illegal fishing in Indonesian and Australian waters.

The workshops provided information to fisheries extension workers, provincial and district fisheries staff and community leaders which can be passed on to fishers who raise concerns regarding sustainable and responsible fishing practices.

“Fisheries extension workers play an important role in sharing information throughout coastal communities – so it’s crucial they understand the issues, are able to explain permissible activities around the border of our two nations, and are aware of the joint cooperation between Indonesia and Australia to address issues of unsustainable fishing practices,” Australian Ambassador to Indonesia, Bill Farmer said.

The campaign is spreading two key messages. Firstly, traditional fishermen are allowed to fish in an area in Australian waters known as the MoU Box, if they are using traditional fishing methods and equipment (i.e. no motors).

Secondly, there is agreement between both countries that Australia has jurisdiction of animals living on the sea bed (e.g. trochus, trepang, lola) in the area north of the Australian Fishing Zone, whereas Indonesia has jurisdiction over animals swimming above the sea bed (e.g. ikan, ikan hue).

“Australia has no interest in capturing boats that are not breaking Australian laws,” Farmer said. “But we will continue to take active measures against anyone fishing illegally in our waters.”

“Both countries have international obligations to protect the marine environment, conserving biodiversity and promoting the sustainable use of our fisheries resources.
Therefore, Australia and Indonesia will work together to enforce their fisheries laws to protect the marine environment and the fish stocks on which we all depend.”

Media Enquiries:
Jenny Dee, Counsellor (Public Affairs) tel. (021) 2550 5290 mob. 0811 187 3175