Illegal wildlife trade has a devastating impact on some of our most vulnerable flora and fauna species. The Australian Government is taking a lead role in the global effort against illegal trade in wildlife, as the new Chair of the Coalition Against Wildlife Trafficking (CAWT).

Australia’s collaborative and intelligence led approach to combating wildlife crime, makes it well placed to take up the position of Chair of this unique government/non-government partnership.

Australia has been a signatory to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Flora and Fauna (CITES) since 1976 and takes its responsibilities for the prevention of illegal wildlife trade very seriously.

For example, Australia’s national environment law provides penalties for the illegal importation of CITES listed wildlife and wildlife products of up to $110,000 in fines and/or up to 10 years in jail for individuals, or up to $550,000 for corporations.

Australia has a strong track record in investigating and prosecuting illegal wildlife trade activity. Only last year Australia seized close to 400 alleged illegally imported wildlife products in what is believed to be its largest ever single seizure.

Congratulations to the departing Chair, the United Kingdom, for the work done during its tenure. Australia looks forward to working with CAWT partners to continue to build the coalition and its achievements.