High-tech drones using the latest AI advances will be trialled on the Great Barrier Reef to detect illegal fishing in no-take green zones and protect biodiversity on the iconic natural wonder.

The Reef Authority and Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service joint project - dubbed “Drone in a Box” (DiaB) - will add to existing boat-launched drones for aerial surveillance in high-risk areas to thwart a spike in poaching by recreational fishers.

Poaching hot spots include the Capricorn Coast and Capricorn Bunker Group, as well as reefs off Cairns, Port Douglas, Townsville and Mackay. Data shows most offenders come from the state’s south-east corner.

Much like fixed speed cameras in high-fatality zones, a DiaB aims to deter potential offenders by increasing the likelihood of detection and enforcement.

Recreational fishers caught poaching in green zones risk on-the-spot fines up to $3,300.

While targeted aerial and vessel-based patrols frequently operate throughout the World Heritage Area, conventional methods have a limited window to detect illegal activity.

This trial is designed to go further—using AI-enhanced surveillance, radar-triggered deployment, night-time capability, and advanced tracking.

It will allow for automated detection, better evidence collection, and real-time alerts to compliance teams.

The Great Barrier Reef attracts over two million visitors annually and supports a vibrant fishing culture, with over 660,000 recreational fishers and 274,000 registered boats in Queensland.
 
Recent studies found that more than half of the coral trout caught in areas open to fishing originated from marine parks—highlighting their critical role in sustaining fish populations across the Reef.

Boaties are encouraged to download the free Eye on the Reef app, cross-check the zones on their GPS plotters, and access zoning maps here.

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