Two unlicensed fishers and a South Brisbane restaurant owner have been prosecuted and fined almost $30,000 for the illegal sale and possession of mud crabs.
Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol officers uncovered illegal, unreported and unlawful fishing activity when they identified unlicensed fishers supplying mud crabs to a Brisbane restaurant.
Three defendants were charged under the Fisheries Act 1994, with one unlicensed fisher fined $3,000, another fined $9,500, and the restaurant owner receiving the largest fine of $17,000.
Through targeted surveillance and searches, officers identified the illegal sale of 48 mud crabs; another 2 female mud crabs and 2 undersized barred javelin were also discovered.
Evidence presented to the court also included interference with another fisher's mud crab pots.
Quotes
Pauline Jacob, Deputy Director-General Fisheries and Forestry, Department of Primary Industries
DPI Deputy Director-General Fisheries and Forestry Pauline Jacob said the successful prosecution was a clear demonstration that breaches would not be tolerated.
"This strong compliance action is proof that our laws will be effectively enforced and that Queenslanders can be confident that wrongdoers will be caught and punished," Ms Jacob said.
"Nobody is above the law — it is illegal for recreational or unlicensed fishers to sell their catch, and restaurants will be held accountable for sourcing seafood unlawfully.
"This type of activity undermines the sustainable management of our fisheries and disadvantages law-abiding commercial fishers," she said.
Consumers are encouraged to take an interest in how the food they buy at a restaurant is sourced. When seafood on the menu appears particularly affordable, it can be a red flag.
"Informed consumers help support licensed fishers and protect Queensland's reputation for premium, sustainable seafood," Ms Jacob said.
Queensland is renowned for world-class, sustainably harvested seafood that supports regional jobs and attracts visitors from across Australia and beyond.
Protecting the industry's strong reputation relies on everyone in the supply chain doing the right thing — sourcing seafood legally and responsibly ensures the long-term health of our fisheries and the quality our consumers expect.
More information
For more information on illegal fishing activities in Queensland, visit the Department of Primary Industries website.
Contact
Email media@dpi.qld.gov.au.
Last updated: 16 Jul 2026