The Norfolk Island domestic fishery survey was undertaken by Department of Primary Industry (DPI), Canberra on behalf of the Norfolk Island Legislative Assembly. Research undertaken on Norfolk Island during 1981 to 1983 was funded by the Fishing Industry Research Trust Account (FIRTA 81/49) with contributions from DPI for computing and research design, and the Norfolk Island Government for subsidized accommodation, transport and laboratory facilities.

The program followed consultation between the Norfolk Island Fishing Club, the Norfolk Island Legislative Assembly, the Department of Territories and DPI, Canberra in response to complaints from local fisherman that fish stocks were declining. Local fishermen considered that foreign fishing vessels (FFV's) in Norfolk Island waters had depleted continental shelf demersal fish stocks.

Information is presented here indicating that the decline in fish abundance in Norfolk Island waters is a normal response to increased fishing pressure from the growing domestic fishery. Furthermore, it is believed that the Norfolk Island continental shelf demersal fishery is approaching full exploitation.

The program was designed to provide a baseline for future fisheries management.