This is a joint media release from the Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA) and Australian Border Force (ABF).
Twenty Indonesian nationals pleaded guilty to illegally fishing in Australian waters at Darwin Local Court on Tuesday 26 May 2026 following the apprehension of three foreign fishing vessels by Australian authorities attached to Maritime Border Command between 1 – 2 May 2026.
The first incident arose after two vessels were detected north of Cape Wessel, Northern Territory. Each vessel was equipped with approximately 1,000 metres of gill net and was suspected to be targeting sharks, likely for their fins.
The following day, a third vessel was interdicted by ABF, operating under Operation Broadstaff. The vessel was detected concealed within mangroves at Mount Adolphus Island in the Torres Strait and was believed to be targeting sea cucumber, however no catch was located onboard.
The three vessels were seized and destroyed in accordance with Australian law. All crew were transported to Darwin for further investigation by AFMA.
Twenty crew members were subsequently charged and pleaded guilty to offences against the Fisheries Management Act 1991 (Cth) at Darwin Local Court, with penalties ranging from three-month terms of imprisonment for repeat offenders, to two-year good behaviour bonds.
There have been 190 Indonesian fishers prosecuted in Darwin Local Court since 1 July 2025.
AFMA, in partnership with ABF, undertakes targeted operations to intercept illegal fishing operations to protect the sustainability of Australia’s fisheries resources and border security.
Australian authorities work closely with the Indonesian Government to address illegal fishing at its source. This includes delivery of public information campaigns within Indonesian fishing communities, distribution of educational material, targeted social media campaigns and proactive engagement with fishers.
Quotes attributable to AFMA’s General Manager, Fisheries Operations, Mr Justin Bathurst
“Illegal fishing in Australian waters carries significant risks. Foreign nationals caught fishing unlawfully face severe penalties, including confiscation of their catch, equipment and vessel, as well as possible imprisonment.”
“AFMA and Maritime Border Command remain firmly committed to identifying, intercepting, and prosecuting those engaged in illegal foreign fishing activity.”
Quotes attributable to acting Deputy Commander Maritime Border Command, Brooke Dewar:
“Supported by our strong and coordinated partnership with AFMA, ABF officers continue to take proactive and decisive action, disrupting illegal fishing operations at every opportunity.”
“Illegal foreign fishers should be under no illusion about the consequences of entering Australian waters – you will be found, you will be stopped, and you will face enforcement action under Australian law.”
