The Minns Labor Government has launched a $20 million Aquaculture Industry Development Program, aimed at expanding and strengthening the state’s aquaculture and seafood sectors.
The program will support growth in oysters, mussels, kelp, algae, freshwater and marine fish hatcheries, and emerging bioproduct industries.
The new initiative is designed to boost productivity, drive sustainability, and help future-proof the industry while supporting regional economic development.
It aligns with the NSW Government’s Aquaculture Vision Statement, which targets doubling the sector’s farmgate value to $300 million by 2030.
Two funding streams will offer grants between $500,000 and $2 million for major infrastructure upgrades, equipment improvements, supply-chain innovation, low-emission conversions, and projects that promote reuse or the development of bioproducts such as processed oyster shells.
The program aims to help the sector meet upcoming challenges including mandatory Country-of-Origin seafood labelling in hospitality from 2026, supply-chain pressures, and managing environmental and biosecurity risks.
Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said the investment will deliver real economic benefits, job creation, and opportunities for innovation, particularly for regional coastal communities.
Source - https://thenorthernriverstimes.com.au
