National Aquaculture Strategy.

The National Aquaculture Strategy (2017-2027) aims to double the current value of Australia’s aquaculture industry by 2027.This is consistent with the National Marine Science Plan 2015–2025: driving the development of Australia’s blue economy (National Marine Science Committee 2015). The target will be achieved by encouraging development of new industry projects and growth of existing businesses. Eight priority areas are highlighted and for each priority, the Strategy identifies a desired outcome and actions. Actions are defined as short-term—to be implemented within six months to two years, medium-term—to be implemented within three to five years, and long-term—to be implemented within five to 10 years.
The eight Aquaculture development priorities priorities, aimed at supporting the growth of a strong, competitive, resilient, profitable and ecologically sustainable aquaculture industry are: 1) Promoting an efficient regulatory framework modelled on established best practice that is transparent and removes unnecessary burden on business.; 2) Maximising the benefits of innovation in aquaculture through targeted research, development and extension; 3) Developing and improving market access for Australian aquaculture products domestically and internationally, capitalising on Australia’s clean and green image; 4) Understanding and managing the biosecurity risks through a coordinated approach to protect the aquaculture industry and the Australian environment; 5) Improving public perception and understanding of Australian aquaculture as a sustainable industry producing safe and healthy products; 6) Continuing to improve the environmental performance of aquaculture, including identifying opportunities for optimising environmental performance through adoption of cost-effective strategies; 7) Encouraging and promoting investment in Australian aquaculture; 8) Improving training and education for the aquaculture workforce and ensuring future employment needs of the industry are met.