News Room

Timor Sea Fishery Gets Green Tick Of Approval

[ 03/07/2008 ]

Commercial fishing in the Timor Sea Fishery has been secured for another five years, Fisheries Minister Chris Natt said today.
 
“The Commonwealth Government has given the Northern Territory Government the “green tick” of approval for the way it manages the Timor Sea Fishery,” Mr Natt said.
 
“This is great news for the Territory, as this independent assessment confirms that we have some of the best managed fisheries.
 
“The Timor Sea Fishery was worth about $4 million to our economy in 2007 and directly employs more than 40 people from boat crew, packers, marketers and others in support industries such as transport and repairs.
 
“The fishery last year produced about 700 tonnes with goldband snapper the main catch.
 
“This five year accreditation from 2008-2013 means we are managing the fishery in an ecologically sustainable manner - allowing the continued export of product from the Timor Reef Fishery.
 
“We already have the highest level of accreditation for several of our fisheries – including our mud crab fishery – which is a great endorsement of the work we’re doing here to ensure the fishing enjoyed today continues into the future.
 
“Recreational anglers should be reassured that our deep water snapper are being managed in an appropriate manner to ensure the on-going productivity of the fishery for all users.
 
“Fishing is a great part of the Territory lifestyle and the Northern Territory Government will make sure it stays that way for Territory families.
 
“We will continue to improve our management practices to ensure we receive more green ticks of approval as well as ensuring the ongoing sustainability of fish stocks.”
 
Further information on the Timor Reef Fishery can be found at www.nt.gov.au/d/fisheries