Australia’s Eastern Zone orange roughy fishery has achieved MSC certification, seen as the final steps in the 15-year journey to sustainability.
The certification process, conducted by independent auditor MRAG Americas, confirmed that the Eastern Zone Australian orange roughy fishery met the rigorous standard. This evaluates fisheries based on core principles of sustainable fish stocks, minimising environmental impact, and effective management. The fishery demonstrated exceptional performance, achieving an average score of 93 out of 100 across these principles.
The report was peer reviewed, overseen by MSC’s technical advisers, and an independent organisation monitored the assessment process. The certification will be valid for five years, until February 2030, and will be subject to annual surveillance audits to ensure ongoing compliance and sustainability.
‘We are thrilled to receive MSC certification for the Eastern Zone Australian Orange Roughy fishery,’ said Simon Boag, executive officer of the South East Trawl Fishing Industry Association (SETFIA).
‘This recognition reflects our dedication to sustainable fishing practices and our commitment to preserving fish stocks for future generations.’
The most recent CSIRO survey found that there were 42,600 tonnes of adult fish (equivalent to approximately >10 million individuals) in two small fishing areas in the eastern zone. Immature, non-spawning and fish further south were not surveyed and are additional to this. Assessments show increasing stocks.
Industry, AFMA, the FRDC and the CSIRO have invested heavily in science to achieve this recognition. The annual allowable catch in the eastern zone is set at low levels to ensure the fishery remains sustainable. Nonetheless, this sustainable fishery is a small contributor local jobs, food security and fantastic local fish.
The Australian Fisheries Management Authority has welcomed the certification.
‘This achievement is a fantastic testament to decades of cooperation between industry, fisheries managers and researchers. The community should be confident in the sustainability of Australia’s fisheries and be proud to support local seafood,’ said AFMA CEO Wez Norris.
