The Australian Border Force is launching a new multi-agency operation to assist in combatting illegal foreign fishing in northern Queensland and the Torres Strait.
Operation BROADSTAFF builds on similar successful operations in north-west Western Australia and the Northern Territory to deter, detect, disrupt and take enforcement action again illegal fishers.
Operation BROADSTAFF complements ongoing ABF efforts already underway in northern Queensland and the Torres Strait, including the Border Monitoring Officer Program and Border Watch Program, and engagement with local communities.
Since 1 January 2026, there have been 10 interdictions of suspected illegal fishing vessels in northern Queensland and the Torres Strait enabled via the increased surveillance and additional on water assets in the region.
The Australian Government recognises that Illegal foreign fishing activity is concerning for local communities and appreciates the importance of maintaining confidence in border protection settings.
Illegal foreign fishing in the Torres Strait impacts on the livelihoods and Sea Country of Torres Strait Islander communities; collaborating effectively with the community to counter illegal foreign fishing is a priority for the ABF.
Anyone with information about suspicious activity which may impact the security of Australia's borders is urged to contact Border Watch. By reporting suspicious activities, you help protect Australia's border and the community. Information can be provided anonymously.
Quotes attributable to Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke:
"This operation is a response to illegal foreign fishing activity in the Torres Strait and is in partnership with the local communities we've spoken with who see and feel the impact."
"One of the reasons we are seeing illegal foreign fishers operating in the Torres Strait is due to the success of Operations LEEDSTRUM and LUNAR. The criminals have tried and failed in the Kimberley and Northern Territory. They are now trying in the Torres Strait, but they will also fail there."
"Australian Border Force surveillance and patrol capabilities are active across vast and remote maritime regions. Foreign fishers who operate in Australian waters illegally risk losing their haul, their equipment, their vessel, and their freedom.".
