SeaNet is an environmental extension service to the Australian seafood industry and provides information and advice on improved fishing gear, technology and methods.

Our primary objective is to work with the fishing industry to minimise the catch of non-target species (bycatch) and encourage environmental best practice for industry. 

SeaNet Extension Officers work with commercial fishers to assist in developing and implementing effective and practical solutions to bycatch issues.  More...

Click on the map below to see what is happening around the country.

SeaNet is directed by a National Steering Committee. SeaNet is funded by the Natural Heritage Trust and as such OceanWatch Australia reports back to the Australian Government on the progress of the SeaNet Program.

Download the SeaNet Innovations display panels [1.1MB pdf] - These panels show some of the innovations the SeaNet program has worked on with fishermen to reduce bycatch and interactions with threatened species.

See the SeaNet and OceanWatch Australia newsletters for more information on SeaNet.

What's New New SeaNet Fact sheets link... Benefits of square mesh codends promoted in Queensland scallop and prawn trawl fisheries... more... Wallis Lake Fishermen's Cooperative Ltd with the assistance of the NSW SeaNet Officer have developed the Wallis Lake Estuary General Fishery EMS... more... Reducing interactions with marine mammals in the Gulf of Carpentaria Gillnet Fishery using acoustic alarms and pingers more...

Project Spotlight Rock Lobster Industry Saving Southern Seals and Sealions more... Protecting U.S. Trade - Reducing Sea Turtle Bycatch in the Australian Industry more... The Southern and Western Tuna and Billfish Fishery Industry Code of Practice for Responsible Fishing more...

SeaNet is funded by the Australian Government's Natural Heritage Trust and administered by the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry