Snapshot of SA Aquaculture Industry

The Fisheries and Aquaculture Group’s mission is to be a key partner with industry in the development of an aquaculture industry which is self-reliant, market driven, internationally competitive, and environmentally and socially responsible.

"There is demand for the premium quality products which are South Australia’s speciality”

 postermp

 oyster01

Growing oysters using the longline method

Pacific oyster production in South Australia is worth approximately $11 million in 2000/01 (approximately 2,936,000 dozen).

The South Australian Quality Assurance Program (SASQAP) is a joint government-industry funded program which provides public health protection for consumers of South Australian shellfish. SASQAP regularly monitors growing areas by testing water and shellfish samples. Biotoxin levels are also monitored through sampling of water for the presence of toxic algal species. To this end, SASQAP is considered a critical component of the shellfish industry in South Australia.

tuna01

Harvesting farmed southern bluefin tuna in cages off Port Lincoln

The South Australian tuna industry is worth $264 million a year but its contribution to the region is estimated at $413 million, with more than 1600 people employed, directly and indirectly.

yabbie01

Harvesting yabbies from commercial aquaculture ponds using baited Opera House traps

Freshwater crayfish aquaculture (marron and yabbies) was established in South Australia as diversification from traditional farming. Current combined production is approximately 25 tonnes worth an estimated $368 000. Production levels are expected to increase due to recent developments within the industry along with a strong domestic and export demand for product.