Australian fishing zone

area, Australia

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July 16, 2026

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Australia's fishing zone is defined by its exclusive economic zone (EEZ), which extends up to 200 nautical miles from its coast. Within this zone, Australia holds exclusive rights to exploit marine resources. This includes numerous islands and reefs that form part of its external territories, scattered across the Pacific and Indian Oceans.12

While Australia's land area is vast, covering nearly 3 million square miles, its EEZ significantly expands its maritime jurisdiction. The Department of Primary Industries and Energy manages fishing rights within these territories, reinforcing Australia's control over its aquatic resources.32

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Australia
Forestry and fishing
… Management Authority, the 200-nautical-mile (370-km) Australian fishing zone—the third largest of its type—was proclaimed in 1979 as a safeguard against foreign incursions. It covers an area considerably larger than the Australian landmass and is difficult to police. Although the influx of Asian and southern European immigrants has enlarged the local…
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… Management Authority, the 200-nautical-mile (370-km) Australian fishing zone—the third largest of its type—was proclaimed in 1979 as a safeguard against foreign incursions. It covers an area considerably larger than the Australian landmass and is difficult to police. Although the influx of Asian and southern European immigrants has enlarged the local…
Read More