Update on electronic monitoring and logbook verification in Australian Commonwealth fisheries

Electronic Monitoring (EM) was implemented by the Australian Fisheries Management Authority in three Australian Commonwealth fisheries in July 2015. EM was introduced in the demersal longline gillnet fisheries (which target shark and scalefish), and pelagic longline tuna fisheries. This paper briefly outlines the objectives and operating principles Australia is using EM to meet, and contextualises EM technology as one component of the suite of fishery monitoring tools used in Commonwealth fisheries. Australia’s experiences of logbook verification following the introduction of EM is presented, as is a brief discussion of an emerging risk identified through review of EM footage in regards to appropriate bycatch handling practices.