Rules governing protected species apply to all recreational fishers. This code of practice for protected species aims to further enforce these regulations within the spearfishing community and similarly educate divers on the importance of preservation.

• Ongoing evidence is required on the quantities and areas where Grey Nurse Sharks and other threatened or protected species abound in order to assess their current status. Members are encouraged to report any sightings of protected and threatened species.
• Information includes:
  • Species, sex and number sighted
  • Locality (specific as possible)
  • Date and time
  • Sea and Weather Conditions
  • Water depth, visibility and temperature
  • Size and behavior
• This code of practice applies to all AUF members. Members will make themselves familiar as to what species are “protected” and classified as “threatened” (i.e. vulnerable or endangered) according to the provisions of the National or local DPI/Fisheries.
• Members will not knowingly disturb protected or threatened species or their habitat. Members will try to educate those who may not otherwise be aware.

cONTENTS

BACKGROUND TO SPEARFISHING IN AUSTRALIA

SPEARFISHING EVENTS

WHERE TO SPEARFISH

CARING FOR OUR MARINE ENVIRONMENT

SPEARFISHERS INTERACTING WITH OTHER USER GROUPS

SAFETY RULES & SPEARFISHING IN GENERAL

SANCTIONED / AUTHORISED TRAINING FOR SPEARFISHING

GREY NURSE SHARKS

THREATENED / PROTECTED SPECIES

SOCIAL MEDIA POLICY

AUF CODES OF PRACTICE FOR SPEARFISHING IN SUMMARY