Support for Western Australia’s emerging aquaculture industry has been reaffirmed with in the Liberal National Government’s 2016-17 state budget.
The budget invests $2.3m in a new multi-species shellfish hatchery in Albany.
“It is expected the hatchery will be fully self-funded within ten years, once the industry has reached sufficient scale,” said fisheries minister, Joe Francis.
He continued: “By establishing a shellfish hatchery in Albany, the government is putting in place the foundation for the expansion of shellfish aquaculture throughout the state.”
Western Australia’s fisheries minister explained that the large-scale industry-run mussel and pearl production hatchery would be set up at the Albany Aquaculture Park, Frenchman’s Bay.
The budget also includes a further $1.3m to expand investor-ready aquaculture zones across the state.
Mr Francis continued: “Industry feedback tells us there is a lack of access to spat, which is a major impediment to industry growth and sustainability. The Albany hatchery will become an important supply source while opening up opportunities for the culture of other species.”
"The total $3.6m investment is part of the Government's long-term plan to develop a sustainable aquaculture industry, creating local jobs and opportunities," he concluded.
Western Australia’s commercial fisheries and aquaculture are worth approximately $490m per year.
