The NSW Fisheries Enforcement amendments empower officers to target illegal suppliers and buyers, identify and question vessel owners, and proactively check seafood sold by mobile vendors for illegal sourcing, with penalties rising to as much as $44,000.

Officials say the reforms will deter illegal activity, protect legitimate fishers, safeguard sustainability, and improve traceability and compliance across fishing operations.

The aquaculture sector already contributes about 107 million AUD at farm gate and close to 250 million AUD to the state economy, supporting around 2,200 regional jobs, underscoring the need for stronger enforcement and tracking.

The reforms follow an independent review of fisheries compliance powers and a safety-focused mandate for Part 9 of the Fisheries Management Act, with the minister underscoring protection of livelihoods and resource sustainability (abalone, lobster, mud crabs).

Overall aim is to deter crime, protect fisheries resources and habitats, and modernize regulatory powers to meet community expectations.

High-value species such as abalone, mud crab, and eastern rock lobster drive illegal trade due to demand and premium prices, raising concerns about overfishing and public health when not stored or caught to standard.

Eight Supervising and District Fisheries Officers will be recruited, with up to 11 new First Year Fisheries Officers to bolster enforcement statewide.

The Minns Government has introduced the Fisheries Management Amendment (Enforcement) Bill 2026 to strengthen compliance powers and curb illegal fishing and black-market seafood, protecting habitats.

Expected outcomes include improved seafood supply chain traceability, higher penalties up to 44,000 AUD for offences against aquaculture stock or infrastructure, and enhanced safety and effectiveness of enforcement.

A separate regulation will introduce a "fit and proper person" test for commercial fishing licences, including a National Police Check, enabling licence denial or suspension for serious offences.

Compliance director Tony Chen says the reforms will deter both buyers and sellers, addressing root causes of illegal trade and reducing environmental impact.