This presentation is about aquaculture in NSW. It will discuss the species cultivated, production outputs and trends, innovation in husbandry techniques, ecological sustainable development, regulation and policy, and growth trajectories.
NSW aquaculture contributed over $105 million in production value in 2022. This equates to a production and secondary sector output of $226 million, added value of $134 million, and $69.3 million household income. 1758 full time jobs were created in NSW.
The unique combination of temperate and sub-tropical coastal waters, and inland freshwater environments support a diverse range of seafood. Key species farmed include Sydney Rock Oysters, Black Tiger Prawns, Murray Cod, Trout, Silver Perch and Barramundi. Development of an algae industry is also on the horizon to meet growing demands for algae products.
By economic value, oyster production is the main aquaculture industry in NSW worth $55 million in 2022. Oyster aquaculture is undertaken in relatively shallow, protected estuaries across the entire coastline. This unique landscape supports thriving populations of the iconic endemic Sydney Rock Oyster, Saccostrea glomerata, only found in temperate Australian waters. Approved in 33 estuaries, there are currently over 3500 hectares of established oyster leases.
Marine water aquaculture is an emerging industry undertaken offshore to 3 nautical miles. There are currently 160ha of established marine leases in the state. Mussel production is the predominant marine waters species, while finfish and algae are emerging to meet strong demand, backed by research and development.
Existing oyster and marine lease areas have been determined in accordance with statutory planning and environmental impact assessments. They provide an investment ready platform for potential aquaculture businesses, generally acquired through public tender.
Land based aquaculture includes marine and freshwater species. Over the past five years research and development in hatchery production systems and grow-out techniques has supported significant growth in production of Black Tiger Prawns and Murray Cod. From 2018 – 2022 prawn value increased from about $3.5 million to $13.7 million, while Murray Cod jumped from $6 million to $14.8 million.
Oyster, marine and land base leases, and aquaculture permits are all administered by NSW DPI under Industry Sustainable Aquaculture Strategies. These strategies outline statutory planning policy and best practice management standards to support the sustainable growth of these industries.