The New South Wales government is investing a further $3.79 million in the state’s aquaculture industry, with four Shoalhaven projects selected under the Aquaculture Industry Development Program.
Four aquaculture businesses have been selected for the second round of funding across the South Coast oyster, kelp and seafood sector, following an investment of $7.4 million across 10 projects announced in mid-April.
The state government launched its Aquaculture Vision Statement in September 2024 in collaboration with the industry to target a doubling of the sector’s economic output to $300 million by 2030. The $20 million Aquaculture Industry Development Program was announced last year to turbocharge seafood production.
The funding comes from the Regional Development Trust, with a goal to increase regional aquaculture and commercial fishing industries access to new and expanding markets, and
leverage opportunities associated with environmental and market changes to position New South Wales as the market leader in sustainable seafood and marine bioproducts.
The program is investing $3.79 million in this round, with co-contributions from the proponents of $1.9 million. The selected projects include:
- Venus Shell Systems – $2 million
Expanding a seaweed processing facility to produce much larger volumes of high‑value ingredients used in skincare, nutrition and medical products. - Joonga Land and Water Aboriginal Corporation – $1.48 million
Purchasing new machinery to process sea urchins more efficiently, create new food products from urchins, and turn leftover shells into material that can improve soil. - Goodnight Oysters – $166,612
Installing new equipment that handles young oysters more gently, helping more of them survive and grow to full size, increasing yield. The upgrades will improve safety and increase the number of oysters available for other local farmers. - Southern Oyster Culture – $145,895
Acquiring a new grading machine and installing a new cool room to remove long transport trips and make oyster handling more efficient, supporting local jobs and increasing production in Lake Conjola and Burrill Lake.
New South Wales Minister for Agriculture, Tara Moriarty, said Shoalhaven producers are driving a stronger and more innovative aquaculture sector.
“This investment will help local businesses grow, create jobs and lift production across the region. We’re backing an industry that is modern, sustainable and built for long‑term success,” said Moriarty.
“This funding program is new to the industry and demonstrates the New South Wales government’s commitment to growing this coastal industry to support the joint industry and government NSW Aquaculture Vision Statement to grow the aquaculture sector to $300 million by 2030.
“It gives operators the tools they need to boost efficiency and reduce waste. By supporting practical upgrades and new technology, we’re helping businesses stay competitive. It’s a strong step forward for the future of aquaculture in the Shoalhaven,” she said.
Further announcements of successful recipients under the Aquaculture Industry Development Program will be made in the coming weeks. Head to nsw.gov.au/regionaldevelopmenttrust for more information.
