Mitigating threatened species gillnet bycatch in northern Australia

Mitigating threatened species bycatch in northern Australian gillnet fisheries is a major management challenge. This project will test novel mitigation devices and assess alternative gear to reduce bycatch of EPBC listed sharks, sawfishes, and turtles. In partnership with industry, trials will assess the effectiveness of devices to elicit a response in bycatch species, their ability to reduce bycatch levels, and their impact on target species. An assessment of alternative gear types will consider the feasibility of transitioning to fishing gear with lower bycatch levels. Trial outcomes will provide industry and managers with proven options to implement threatened species mitigation strategies in northern gillnet fisheries.