The third international billfish symposium has been anticipated by the world's fisheries community since the previous two such meetings (1972,1988) were watersheds in the advancement of knowledge of these important fishes. There have been significant increases in the world's understanding of billfish species stock structure and population dynamics, and corresponding increases in concerns for some global stocks. The Australian populations of billfishes occur in waters off most States and are especially well represented in the region of the Great Barrier Reef. Much of this area has recently been declared to be of World Heritage value and magnificent arrangements for natural resources has been under considerable scrutiny from agencies and organisations not usually concerned with fisheries management. There is a need to examine the global status of our understanding of these fishes and the management regimes adopted throughout the world. Australia may benefit from such an understanding. The broadbill swordfish is in decline in parts of the northern hemisphere and remedial action is needed to protect these stocks. Again, Australia would benefit from an understanding of past and present management practices for this species.