Affirming the importance of Pacific fisheries

Today we reinforce Australia's commitment tosupporting Pacific fisheries, which are a key economic driver throughout theregion.

At the annual Forum Fisheries Committeemeeting in the Cook Islands, Senator Ruston signed a new 10-year PartnershipArrangement on behalf of Australia with the Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA). Thisarrangement builds on our enduring partnership with the region to maximise theeconomic benefits for Pacific island countries from their natural resources.

Australia works closely with the FFA tosupport Pacific island countries in fisheries management and development. Wealso help combat illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing.

In 2016, the Pacific's tuna fisheries werevalued at around USD$2.6 billion, earning close to USD$500 million in accessfees for Pacific island countries and providing 25,000 jobs. Sustainablefisheries offer one of the best opportunities to promote trade, strengthengovernment revenue and promote future food security for the poor.

The Partnership between Australia and the FFAwill be underpinned by a $20 million investment which will provide FFA with theflexibility to mobilise additional resources and meet the needs of its members.There will also be extensive practical support through aerial surveillance andother related initiatives.

Australia hasworked closely with the FFA over many decades. This arrangement underlines ourshared commitment to regional fisheries, monitoring and development engagement.