On 13 September 2016, the Senate referred the following matter to the Environment and Communications References Committee for inquiry and report by 23 November 2016:

The environmental, social and economic impacts of large-capacity fishing vessels commonly known as 'supertrawlers' operating in Australia's marine jurisdiction, with particular reference to:

1. the effect of large fishing vessels on the marine ecosystem, including:
   1. impacts on fish stocks and the marine food chain, and
   2. bycatch and interactions with protected marine species;
2. current research and scientific knowledge;
3. social and economic impacts, including effects on other commercial fishing activities and recreational fishing;
4. the effectiveness of the current regulatory framework and compliance arrangements; and
5. any other related matters.