A new research project supported by the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) aims to boost sustainable aquaculture in Fiji and northern Australia, focusing on tropical rock oyster and seaweed farming.
The $2.9 million initiative, led by the University of the Sunshine Coast, brings together government agencies and research institutions from both countries.
Partners include Fiji's Ministry of Fisheries, the Northern Territory Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, and the Pacific Community's Division of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Marine Ecosystems.
Fiji's Minister for Fisheries and Forests Alitia Bainivalu welcomed the initiative, saying it would support long-term benefits.
"With support from our Australian partners, this project will enhance market access, technical expertise, and opportunities for coastal communities," she said.
"We are strengthening food systems and creating meaningful economic opportunities that will help ensure resilience and prosperity for future generations.
"I look forward to the positive impacts this project will have on the communities of Fiji and northern Australia, as well as the broader goal of fostering equitable food systems in the Pacific and beyond."
The researchers will work with Indigenous communities in the Northern Territory, including Goulburn Island and Groote Eylandt.
It will support locally-led aquaculture to create sustainable livelihoods and improve food security.
Dr Samantha Nowland, from the NT Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, said collaboration with local groups was key.
"Working alongside Yagbani Aboriginal Corporation and Groote Aqua Aboriginal Corporation on Goulburn Island and Groote Eylandt is central to this project," she said.
"Through two-way learning between traditional knowledge and western science, we're supporting community aspirations to develop local aquaculture industries that are culturally appropriate, economically meaningful, and environmentally sustainable.
"This is about creating lasting opportunities, designed with, and led by, the communities themselves."
NT Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries Gerard Maley said the project aligns with the Territory's economic and environmental goals.
"By developing a marketable tropical rock oyster product and incorporating seaweed farming, we're supporting food security, empowering local communities and driving regional economic growth," Minister Maley said.
"This initiative reflects our commitment to sustainable aquaculture and building the Territory's economy."
Oyster farming in both regions is still in the early stages, however research suggests a developed industry could support up to 500 jobs and generate more than $200 million in economic output.
Seaweed farming, once a large industry in the Pacific, has declined since 2000 and is not currently operating at a commercial ocean-based level in Australia.
The project will examine how seaweed farming can be integrated with oyster systems to provide additional income, improve water quality and strengthen climate resilience.
It will also address environmental, technical and market barriers and support the development of a safe and nutritious tropical oyster product.
Source - https://nit.com.au
