The region extends from the far south coast of New South Wales, around Tasmania and Victoria and west to Kangaroo Island off South Australia. This is the first temperate deep sea network of marine reserves in the world.

The reserves will come into effect on 3 September 2007. They are managed by the Department of the Environment and Water Resources (DEW) under delegation from the Australian Government Director of National Parks. The activities allowed in the South-east Commonwealth Marine Reserve Network are based on a system of zones which allow and prohibit certain activities. While some fishing methods are allowed in some zones of some of the reserves, demersal trawl, Danish seine, scallop dredge and gillnetting below 183 metres are not allowed in any of the reserves. These arrangements are explained in detail on the DEW website.

To fish in areas where it is allowed or to transit any of the reserves, commercial fishers must register for an approval prior to fishing. There are no fees or charges associated with being registered. For more information on how to register please contact the South-east Region Manager on (02) 6274 1111 or go to the DEW website.