Australia Bay Lobster Producers will receive AU$2 million to establish a finfish hatchery supporting ornamental aquaculture and estuary restocking Australia’s New South Wales (NSW) Government has announced a major AU$27…

Australia Bay Lobster Producers will receive AU$2 million to establish a finfish hatchery supporting ornamental aquaculture and estuary restocking

Australia’s New South Wales (NSW) Government has announced a major AU$27 million investment to strengthen the state’s aquaculture industry, supporting 31 projects focused on sustainability, innovation, and value-added seafood production. Backed through the Regional Development Trust, the selected businesses will contribute an additional AU$14 million, bringing the total investment to AU$41 million.

The funding forms part of the Minns Labour Government’s strategy to modernise aquaculture and advance the NSW Aquaculture Vision Statement, launched in 2024 to double the sector’s economic output by 2030. The state’s aquaculture industry currently contributes nearly AU$250 million annually to the economy and supports around 2,200 jobs.

The funded projects span the length of the NSW coastline from Tweed Heads to Eden and include initiatives in modern oyster farming, seaweed processing, renewable energy adoption, circular economy solutions, and sustainable seafood production.

Among the major recipients, Armstrong Oysters will receive AU$1.69 million to expand its Sydney Rock Oyster nursery, strengthening juvenile oyster supply for commercial growers. Ocean Watch has secured AU$1.3 million to recover aquaculture plastics and seafood waste for conversion into sustainable bait and pet-food products. Australia Bay Lobster Producers will receive AU$2 million to establish a finfish hatchery supporting ornamental aquaculture and estuary restocking.

Other projects include inland carp processing to convert invasive European carp into aquaculture feed, automated solar-powered oyster farming systems, large-scale seaweed biorefining for skincare, nutrition and medical applications, and sustainable sea urchin processing led by the Joonga Land and Water Aboriginal Corporation.

Several projects also focus on replacing diesel-powered infrastructure with solar and battery systems, reducing emissions while improving operational efficiency. The investment is expected to strengthen regional economies, create skilled employment opportunities, enhance resource efficiency, and reinforce NSW’s position as a leader in sustainable aquaculture and the emerging blue economy.