AUF Codes of Practice for Spearfishing in Summary

Codes of Practice

Prepared with assistance of many contributors – Version February 2022

These Codes of Practice for spearfishing in Australia and information about caring for the environment have been developed as a minimum standard. The aim is to ensure that all spearfishers are aware of the high standard of behavior expected.

Preservation of the marine environment and the sport are mutual objectives. This code applies to all members of the AUF. It is intended to discourage certain types of unacceptable behavior which may discredit the sport of spearfishing. Serious cases, such as members willingly engaged in illegal activities, may result in penalties including suspension or expulsion. Please become familiar with these guidelines and the Codes of Conduct:

Consider the safety of yourself and other people at all times.
Know and at all times practice the Spearfishing and Freediving safety rules and principles in this document.
Respect our marine life by never taking more game than for your immediate personal needs, spread your effort by only taking one or two of each legal specie.
Respect our marine life by never harming unwanted game, despatch your captures quickly and humanely.
Know and at all times obey boating regulations including:
- Carrying required safety equipment;
- make sure your boat is third party insured;
- Navigating safely at all times, ensuring drivers are licensed;
- Ensure that the designated driver can operate safely with divers in the water; and
- Take care when anchoring, check your anchor for security and avoid seabed damage.
Know and at all times obey Local State / Territories fisheries regulations including:
- Hold a current recreational fishing licence where required;
- Research and be aware of size and bag limits for target species for the area where you plan to fish;
- Ensure you research and are well aware of bans on the taking of threatened of protected species in the area you are diving;
- The sale of fish by recreational fishers illegal and large fines apply; and
- Ensure you research and are well aware of any areas that are closed to spearfishing.

Guard our seas from law breakers by reporting suspicious or illegal activity to the proper authorities.

Always co-operate with regulatory authority officers performing their duty. Show consideration towards other water users pursuing their own recreation. Clean your catch at a designated cleaning area or away from general public areas. Whenever you go diving never leave your rubbish behind. Never act in a way which results in public disfavour towards our sport or our organisation. Maintain 50 metres distance from anglers, where it is safe to do so.

The AUF is a not-for-profit organization that relies on support from marine enthusiasts throughout the States and Territories of Australia to effectively advocate for the sustainable use of our marine environment. For further information or to become a member visit https://auf.com.au/

SAFE and ENJOYABLE SPEARFISHING TO ALL