The Australian Government congratulates Indonesian authorities on the recent arrests of eight more people smugglers carried out in separate operations across Indonesia.

In Makassar, three men were arrested over an alleged plot to smuggle Nepalese people to Darwin by boat, while over in Sumatra five alleged people smugglers were arrested this month for their involvement with another criminal network targeting Australia.

Minister for Immigration and Border Protection Peter Dutton praised the efforts of the Indonesia National Police and immigration authorities on uncovering and disrupting these criminal people smuggling networks.

"These new arrests demonstrate the continuing success of offshore deterrence efforts with both attempts stopped before the boats even hit the water," Mr Dutton said.

"Once again we thank our Indonesian counterparts for their continued commitment to tackling this evil trade. Australia and our regional partners remain resolute in our efforts to stamp out people smuggling across the region.

"We must continue to inform and educate vulnerable people about the dangers of illegal maritime travel and the deception and lies of people smugglers.

"Our increased aerial surveillance and maritime capabilities continue to ensure that no people smuggling boats will make it to Australia."

Minister for Justice Michael Keenan said the alleged people smugglers arrested in Sumatra have been linked to a number of successful people smuggling ventures between Indonesia and Malaysia over recent years.  

"Indonesian police are shutting down the illegal networks and preventing people smuggling ventures from reaching our shores," Mr Keenan said.

"Recent convictions and arrests of key people smugglers, including the notorious Captain Bram, represent a significant achievement in cooperation between Australia and Indonesia on people smuggling matters.

"Together we remain committed to stamping out people smuggling and preventing people risking their lives on unsafe boats."