Senator Ian Macdonald, the Federal Minister responsible for Commonwealth fisheries, said aquaculture had the fastest jobs growth in the primary industry sector and should ensure that success continues.

In opening the inaugural Australian Prawn and Barramundi Conference today in Sydney, Senator Macdonald said during the past four years, jobs growth had been at 260 per cent in the aquaculture industry, with 7,000 people now directly employed.

“This is an industry that has seen significant growth but still has tremendous potential on the world stage,” Senator Macdonald said. “The industry has a target of $2.5 billion in exports by the year 2010, and that is not an unrealistic target. The future lies in increasing global demand through high-quality, sustainable, value-added products.

The conference’s principal joint sponsors were the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation (FRDC), the Commonwealth Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry - Australia and Ridley Aqua-Feed.

At the conference, Senator Macdonald urged aquaculture producers to access Federal Government support initiatives.

He said these programs included $25 million provided over five years to support primary producers adopt new environment management systems, and the $135 million available for industry and business development.

“Aquaculture production in Australia has risen in value by an average 13 per cent each year since 1990,” Senator Macdonald said.

“With such a rate of development, producers may be distracted from investigating Federal Government assistant; however, I urge them to consider the options in ensuring their industry seizes the opportunity it has in the global market.”

Last financial year (2000/01), Australian production of farmed barramundi and prawns alone was 1000 tonnes (farm-gate value $8.5 million) and 3000 tonnes ($50 million).
 

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