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Aquaculture in Western Australia

Aquaculture is the farming of marine and freshwater finfish, shellfish, aquatic plants, algae, and other organisms. 

The department is responsible for regulating aquaculture in Western Australia (WA) and also operates broodstock and restocking production facilities.

We are committed to growing and supporting the aquaculture industry by:

  • enabling access to natural resources (including coastal waters suitable for large-scale production and wild stocks for use as broodstock)
  • providing aquaculture development zones where strategic environmental approvals have been secured
  • reducing unnecessary regulation
  • providing strong fish health capability within the department (such as diagnostic services, advice, and support).

Aquaculture in WA

The Aquaculture Council of Western Australia Inc. is the peak industry body that represents and promotes the interests of the aquaculture sector in WA.

Aquaculture presents significant potential for growth, offering a range of benefits including: 

  • economic development 
  • sustainable practices 
  • research and innovation 
  • community development 
  • market diversification.

Current and proposed aquaculture sites within WA  

View map

Aquaculture Development Plan for Western Australia

The WA Government’s commitment to develop a State Aquaculture Strategy is being fulfilled through the Aquaculture Development Plan, released in November 2020. The purpose of the plan is to provide realistic and achievable targets that will be the foundation for growth between 2020-2030. 

The plan was developed in consultation with industry and key stakeholders, with a focus on foundations for growth and addresses key issues which have commonly been considered as barriers to the development of aquaculture in WA.  

The department, in liaison with relevant stakeholders and partners, will continue to deliver core functions and activities and provide for new initiatives through the implementation of the aquaculture plan to achieve economic growth, resilience through diversification, and job security and quality. 

View plan

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