NSW Aquaculture Industry Sets $300 Million Target for 2030

The Minns Labor Government has pledged to collaborate closely with the aquaculture industry to double the farm gate value of New South Wales’ aquaculture sector to $300 million by 2030. This ambitious goal will be pursued through innovative research, ongoing investment in breeding programs, and a strong commitment to enhancing water quality.

The announcement was made in conjunction with the launch of the NSW Aquaculture Vision Statement during the national Oyster Industry Conference held in Port Macquarie, attended by over 300 delegates from across Australia and internationally.

The Vision Statement outlines a comprehensive strategy for the development of the state’s aquaculture industries, focusing on seafood production, bioproducts development, and climate change adaptation.

Key initiatives to achieve the $300 million target include:

• Risk Management: Implementing a breeding program for the oyster industry, alongside exploring alternative species.

• Innovative Research: Conducting cutting-edge research at DPIRD research stations and in collaboration with industry partners.

• Expanding Marine Aquaculture: Identifying and opening new areas for marine aquaculture, including mussels, oysters, and algae.

• Environmental Benefts: Promoting the environmental advantages of aquaculture, such as the nutrient uptake capabilities of algae, oysters, and mussels, which contribute to water quality improvement.

• Streamlining Biosecurity: Simplifying aquatic biosecurity regulations to enhance access to interstate spat supply.

• Water Quality Enhancement: Protecting and improving water quality, a critical factor for sustainable aquaculture.

• Aboriginal Participation: Creating opportunities for Aboriginal communities to engage in aquaculture businesses.

The government, in partnership with the industry, will develop a detailed roadmap to guide the implementation of these initiatives, all aimed at reaching the $300 million goal by 2030.

The oyster sector, the cornerstone of NSW’s aquaculture industry, has seen rapid growth, with a 30 percent increase in farm gate value in 2022/23, reaching $78 million. This sector also contributes over $30 million to the state’s economy, providing thousands of jobs across production, wholesale, processing, retail, and agri-tourism. The industry’s commitment to water quality monitoring and marine environment protection remains a source of pride.

To support the industry’s vision, the Minns Government has announced a $3 million investment in upgrades at the Port Stephens Fisheries Institute. These enhancements will improve breeding and research facilities for shellfsh, including oysters and fnfsh, fostering innovation in seafood production.

Additionally, fnancial support has been extended to aquaculture and commercial fshing businesses affected by natural disasters and aquatic diseases, such as the White Spot prawn virus and QX disease in Sydney Rock Oysters.

Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty, acknowledged the challenges faced