On The Land
3 October, 2024
Strategy supports aquaculture growth
A NEW strategy for the aquaculture sector has been released by the Queensland Government, along with a commitment to invest $15 million into the continued growth of the industry.
The Queensland Aquaculture Strategy 2024–2034, was launched by Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries Minister Mark Furner and outlines the plan to put more premium Queensland seafood on plates in our state and across the globe.
The latest investment is a further boost to the $7.5 million committed to aquaculture in March 2023.
“It’s important we’re continuing to invest in our aquaculture sector to give consumers choice, variety, and confidence that all Queensland seafood is sustainable and responsibly sourced,” Mr Furner said.
“We’re backing Queensland’s aquaculture industry with a combined $22.5 million of investment and we are onto a winner – the industry continues to grow and has now hit a record high of $263 million.”
Some of the key initiatives in the strategy include:
• A research and development program to support diversification in the industry, including additional support for the future development of tropical rock oysters in Queensland
• Research into innovative and cost-effective waste treatment and management, farm automation and energy-efficient enterprises
• Enhanced biosecurity initiatives to support industry
• A limited grants program to support First Nation businesses and the adoption of new technologies to enhance business sustainability and resilience, and
• The establishment of an Aquaculture Stakeholder Reference Group.
The strategy supports additional research, development and extension, as well as support for new technologies and equipment, including a grants program.
The document was developed with feedback from a wide range of stakeholders, including industry associations, operators, First Nations Traditional Custodians and aquaculture businesses, as well as government and non-government organisations and universities.
The strategy seeks to enhance engagement and support for First Nations operators in the industry and responds to feedback from stakeholders on charting the next phase of development for Queensland’s aquaculture industry.
The Queensland Aquaculture Strategy 2024–2034 is available at: www.daf.qld.gov.au/business-priorities/fisheries/industry/aquaculture/strategy
