Harvest Strategy Policy

In September 2007 the Australian Government released the Commonwealth Fisheries Harvest Strategy Policy and Guidelines for Implementation of the Commonwealth Fisheries Harvest Strategy Policy. The then Minister subsequently required the Australian Fisheries Management Authority to implement harvest strategies in all relevant Commonwealth fisheries by January 2009.

What is the Harvest Strategy Policy?

The Harvest Strategy Policy and associated implementation Guidelines aim to ensure that key commercial fish species are managed for long-term biological sustainability and economic profitability. It also seeks to provide the fishing industry with a more certain operating environment. The Harvest Strategy Policy provides a framework that allows a strategic, science-based approach to setting total allowable catch levels in all Commonwealth fisheries on a fishery by fishery basis. The implementation guidelines provide practical advice on how to interpret and apply the Harvest Strategy Policy to Australia's fisheries and contain details of the science behind the fisheries management decisions.

The policy is due for review with a report to be provided to the Australian Government Ministers for Fisheries and Environment within five years of its commencement. Opportunities will be provided for stakeholder engagement during this review.

• Commonwealth Fisheries Harvest Strategy, Policy and Guidelines - September 2007 PDF [660kb]

For more information on the management of Commonwealth fisheries contact the Australian Fisheries Management Authority or phone 1300 723 621.