Queensland Aquaculture Strategy 2024-2034 feedback

At Barron River Redclaw, we are dedicated to advancing the aquaculture industry in Queensland. Recently, we made a significant submission to the Queensland Aquaculture Strategy 2024-2034, addressing key areas of opportunity and concern to assist all redclaw and aquaculture farmers in the industry.

The Queensland Aquaculture Strategy aims to sustain and enhance Queensland’s reputation as the preferred supplier of quality farmed seafood. Redclaw production is only 22 tonne (2022-23) representing a small slice of the aquaculture industry which is currently valued at $263 million and continuing to grow. This strategy is vital for maintaining momentum and supporting the regional economies and jobs that depend on it.

The strategy is not just about about growing the redclaw industry, rather its part of a $15 million commitment under the Future Fishing Taskforce’s recommendations, which seek to reduce high-risk fishing activities impacting the Great Barrier Reef. In total, the Queensland and Australian Governments have committed $185 million to implementing these recommendations.

Our Barron River Redclaw farms submission highlights several key areas, including:

  • Research Priorities: Identifying the most critical research areas to drive innovation and sustainability in aquaculture.
  • Best Practice Regulatory Approaches: Developing regulations that support growth while ensuring environmental protection.
  • Innovative Investment: Accelerating the adoption of new technologies and practices to keep Queensland at the forefront of sustainable aquaculture.
  • Support for Small Aquaculture Farms and Businesses: Emphasizing the need to provide targeted support to small-scale operations, which are vital for the industry’s diversity and resilience.
  • Strengthening Community Partnerships: Expanding collaborative projects with Indigenous communities and other local stakeholders.

Public consultation on the Queensland Aquaculture Strategy 2024-2034 is open until 5 pm on Wednesday, 31 July 2024. We encourage all interested stakeholders in the aquaculture sector to participate and share their insights to further enhance our industry’s sustainability and growth.

For more information on the consultation paper and to make a submission, visit the https://daf.engagementhub.com.au/aquaculture-strategy-consultation

At Barron River Redclaw, we are committed to contributing to a thriving, sustainable aquaculture industry in Queensland and look forward to seeing the positive outcomes from this strategy.