A new $2.5 million agreement will see the establishment of a dedicated organisation responsible for coordinating all research and development for the Southern Rocklobster.
Fisheries Minister Senator Ian Macdonald said today the signing of the agreement between Southern Rocklobster Limited (SRL) and the Australian Government's Fisheries Research and Development Corporation was a positive step forward for the industry.
The project is set to boost the long-term profitability, sustainability and competitiveness of Australia's $150 million dollar southern rock lobster industry.
The Southern Rocklobster industry will contribute $250,000 for five years towards research and development opportunities which the Australian Government will match.
"The project will help the industry better take advantage of its position in the global marketplace and, perhaps more importantly, help it develop the strategies needed to quickly respond to the opportunities and challenges ahead," Senator Macdonald said.
Senator Macdonald said the Australian Southern Rocklobster industry is widely acknowledged as world leaders, and the funding would allow this to continue.
“The industry has been recognised by the United Nations Association of Australia for its Clean and Green programme, and received the National Safety Council of Australia's top two Awards for Health and Safety and environmental programmes.”
Independent Chairman for Southern Rocklobster Limited Roger Cotton said the establishment of a single coordination point will assist dealing with the structure of the industry, where no one organisation has the financial capacity to develop a supply chain to address the needs of the sector.
"The fishing industry continues to progress; however, we cannot be complacent, and we need to address new and emerging issues to remain profitable. This agreement will allow SRL to address these issues much more efficiently,” Mr Cotton said.
The outcome of this project will allow the Southern Rocklobster industry to access new market outlets, create jobs; grow beach price; and be better placed to meet international export market requirements.
"It will also develop links with programmes at the regional, State and national level to ensure they incorporate an overall national focus," Senator Macdonald said.
The agreement was signed in Melbourne on Tuesday, 13 December.
