About the Commonwealth Fisheries Association
Founded in 2002, the Commonwealth Fisheries Association (CFA) is the peak industry body representing the collective rights, responsibilities and interests of a diverse commercial fishing industry in Commonwealth-regulated fisheries. Since 2006, the CFA has served as the legislated peak industry body in accordance with the Fisheries Administration Act 1991. This grants the CFA a distinctive role in representing the interests of the Commonwealth fishing industry to AFMA and government. Along with this status come specific rights and responsibilities, such as the statutory requirement for the Australian Fisheries Management Authority (AFMA) Chair to provide an annual report to the CFA on AFMA’s activities, and for the CFA to be consulted during the preparation of AFMA’s Corporate Plan. The CFA is also a representative body to the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation (FRDC) - one of four ministerially-declared representative organisations to which the FRDC is accountable under legislation.
The CFA’s membership includes independent not-for-profit industry association with a board that encompasses a broad spectrum of knowledge, expertise and experience from across the commercial fishing industry. The CFA membership includes industry associations representing fishers operating in the major Commonwealth fisheries and advocates on their behalf on Commonwealth fisheries issues.
The CFA works closely with a range of industry representative bodies - particular the Australian national Peak seafood industry organisation, Seafood Industry Australia (SIA). Individual sector associations, which are members of the CFA, also advocate for their members on issues that directly impact their own individual fisheries through their own associations and SIA. The CFA enhances their efforts by addressing broader, cross-cutting issues that specifically affect managed fisheries within Commonwealth waters. The CFA does not involve itself in state jurisdictional fisheries matters or issues affecting the marketing or processing of seafood.
How does CFA achieve this?
Represent Commonwealth fishers to AFMA and the Australian government
Advocate to politicians and policy makers
Contribute to policy and legislative reviews
Engage in forums, conferences, meetings, and surveys
Publish reports, press releases, and submissions
Enable networking and information exchange among members and stakeholders
Collaborates with industry and research organisations
Undertake projects and other activities
The CFA focuses on:
Enhancing environmental sustainability
Increasing economic sustainability within the industry
Securing access to licensed fisheries
Investing in research and development
Highlighting the industry’s value and contributions to Australia’s society, economy, and environment
CFA BOARD
Daniel Casement
Chair
Daniel is CEO of the Australian Southern Bluefin Tuna Industry Association (ASBTIA) with deep roots in the seafood industry. Coming from a commercial fishing family and a degree in fisheries science, Dan has worked in research, policy, and program management across government, academia, and industry.
His executive leadership and connections provide valuable insights into partnerships, governance, and strategic planning based on solid science and data.
Annie Jarrett
Annie Jarrett is the CEO of NPF Industry Pty Ltd, overseeing all operations and co-management programs for Northern Prawn Fishery (NPF) license holders. She participates in NPRAG and NORMAC, serves as a director on the Australian Council of Prawn Fisheries board, and is a member of the National Fisheries Advisory Council. Annie represents the fishing industry in Queensland’s Water Engagement Forum and the Global Ghost Gear Initiative and is an Adjunct Industry Fellow at Griffith University. With 40 years of experience, she has held various leadership roles, including director at the (previous) Australian Fisheries Management Authority and serving on the Marine Stewardship Council Board and (previous) MSC Stakeholder Council. Her professional focus includes fisheries sustainability, rights-based management, and co-management.
David Carter
CEO Austral Fisheries
David Carter has spent his entire career at Austral Fisheries, starting as a Deckhand on a prawn trawler after graduating with a Marine Science degree from Melbourne University in 1978. Over 44 years, he has championed sustainable fisheries management, earning numerous certifications with the Marine Stewardship Council, fighting to eradicate Patagonian toothfish poachers, and working with NGOs like WWF. In 2016, he led Austral Fisheries to become the first carbon-neutral seafood company. David was inducted into the National Seafood Industry Hall of Fame in 2012 and received the Marine Stewardship Council’s Lifetime Achievement award in 2020.
Stuart Richey AM
Stuart Richey is a Tasmanian commercial fisherman and offshore services operator. He recently retired as Chairman of the Australian Maritime Safety Authority after eight years in that role. Between 1992 and 2001, he served as a foundation member and Deputy Chair on the board of the Australian Fisheries Management Authority. From 2003 to 2012, he was Deputy Chair of the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation. He currently Chairs several industry advisory bodies and associations.
As Managing Director of Richey Fishing Company and Richey Services, his business includes Australian salmon, scallop, squid, and marine charter operations.
Mr Richey was made a Member of the Order of Australia in 2005 for his service to the commercial fishing industry particularly in relation to the promotion of the sustainable utilisation of Australian Government managed fisheries resources and the development of new national marine polices and safety legislation. He is a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and holds current Master IV and MED qualifications
His executive leadership and connections provide valuable insights into partnerships, governance, and strategic planning based on solid science and data.
Emily Rowe
Executive Officer
Emily has extensive experience in fisheries governance, industry representation, and stakeholder engagement. She has worked across commercial fishing operations, association leadership, and regional advocacy, combining practical knowledge of the seafood sector with strong business acumen as a business owner. Emily holds a Bachelor of Science (Agricultural Science) and has led initiatives to support sustainable management, industry development, and effective collaboration between fishers, government, and the broader community. She has a passion for primary production and is committed to supporting a vibrant, successful and sustainable future for Australia’s fisheries.