The NT government has responded to calls from Traditional Owners to strengthen protection of the Territory's waterways and fishing.
Earlier this week, Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries Gerard Maley announced the launch of a new fisheries compliance vessel, designed for river and remote waterway patrols.
Mr Maley said the custom-built 5.3-metre vessel named Caranx will increase the range and response capabilities of the Fisheries Compliance Unit.
The unit works closely with Aboriginal Marine Rangers, the Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA), Fisheries Inspectors, and other government agencies, on identifying and responding to compliance risks across the Darwin region, as well as remote parts of the NT.
Last November the Northern Land Council urged authorities to take a tougher approach to foreign fishing vessel incursions amid an influx of boats breaching Aboriginal land and waters along the West Arnhem Land coastline.
Council chair Matthew Ryan called for federal and Northern Territory government agencies to work collaboratively to create stronger deterrents to curb the activity which had "increased markedly" in recent months.
The new vessel announced on Monday is part of what the Territory government called broader compliance improvements to support sustainability.
Mr Maley noted that recreational fishing directly contributes $144 million to the NT economy, with a further $126 million generated indirectly.
"By protecting our waterways, we're preserving the NT lifestyle, supporting thousands of local jobs, and strengthening one of our greatest tourism assets," he said.
The Department of Agriculture and Fisheries' Fisheries Compliance Unit, which has been operational since March 2024, monitors recreational and commercial fishing. It also foresees Fishing Tour Operators, ensuring compliance with possession limits and fisheries legislation.
In addition to the new vessel, the latest upgrades to the Fisheries Compliance Unit's operations include: the retrofitting of the vessel Longtail with specialist compliance equipment for coastal operations up to 30 nautical miles offshore; and enhancements to the vessel Mallarra with thermal and night vision capabilities, enabling it to be used for both compliance and research.
"On-water patrols and inspections play a crucial role in deterring illegal activity and promote sustainability, ensuring that healthy fish populations continue to support the economy and the Territory's unique lifestyle," said Mr Maley.
