Australia and Indonesia Undertake Fourth Coordinated Fisheries Patrol

Australia and Indonesia have successfully undertaken a fourth coordinated fisheries patrol targeting illegal fishing in the Arafura Sea.

Australia’s Ambassador to Indonesia, Bill Farmer, said the seven day operation from 24 to 30 May 2009 demonstrated a cooperative approach to safeguarding the Australian–Indonesian Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) from illegal fishing.

The patrol involved the Australian Customs Vessel Roebuck Bay, the Indonesian Fisheries Vessels Hiu Macan 001 and Hiu Macan 002 and a Coastwatch aircraft.

Ambassador Farmer said the coordinated patrol reflected the serious action both countries were taking to tackle illegal fishing in the region.

“Illegal fishing is an international problem and the success of the coordinated patrol demonstrates what can be achieved through international cooperation,” he said.

The operation was coordinated by Australia’s Border Protection Command from the Australian Maritime Security Operations Centre within the new Customs 24-hour Integrated Operations Centre.

Australia’s Minister for Home Affairs, Mr Bob Debus, said these operations send a strong message to operators of illegal fishing vessels that their activities will not be tolerated.

“Australia and Indonesia will continue to work together to stem illegal activity in our respective Exclusive Economic Zones,” he said.

“Illegal fishing is an international problem that poses serious environmental, quarantine, health and security threats to all nations.”

Mr Debus thanked the Indonesian authorities and crews of the Indonesian patrol vessels for their support in the operation.

Media Enquiries:
Jenny Dee (Counsellor Public Affairs) tel. (021) 2553 5290 mob. 0811 187 3175
Photographs of the patrol are available in the Australian Customs Media Room at www.customs.gov.au