Ornamental Fish

The keeping of ornamental fish is a popular hobby. In 2005 it was estimated that just over 15.5 million fish were imported into Australia for use in the aquarium trade with an estimated 97% of these being freshwater species. The value of Australia’s ornamental aquarium fish trade has been estimated to be worth $350 million annually ¹.

The value of the Northern Territory ornamental fish trade is currently unknown but this industry is undoubtably an important economic contributor. 

The trade of aquarium species is permitted under the Aquarium Trader Licence. No licensed aquarium trader may directly harvest aquarium species from the wild. The harvest of aquatic species for aquarium trade and display is currently managed through a separate Aquarium Fish/Display Licence.   No new Aquarium Fish/Display Licences are available in the aquarium fishery and licences are currently unable to be transferred. Management of the aquarium fishery is administered under the Fisheries Regulations.

Ornamental fish can pose a significant risk to aquatic systems in Australia as they can act as potential vectors for major aquatic animal pest or disease incursions

A list of those aquatic species deemed noxious or banned in the Territory is available here. If you are found in possession of any aquatic life not permitted in the Territory you may incur a fine of up to $20,000.

If you wish to bring any live aquatic species into the Territory you must apply to Fisheries for a permit. Permit applications are available from the Fisheries Licensing Unit on +61 8 8999 2144.

Due to the complexities in the trade and the potential for pests and diseases, a national Ornamental Fish Policy Working Group was formed, with representatives from across Australia. The report "A Strategic Approach to the Management of Ornamental Fish in Australia" was produced containing seven recommendations for the future management and regulation of the ornamental fish trade in Australia. The Northern Territory is a signatory to this national strategy and is currently in the process of implementing the seven recommendations.

¹ figures quoted from the A Strategic Approach to the Management of Ornamental Fish in Australia, 2007