New South Wales

The Marine Vegetation Collection for Commercial Purposes – Information Kit outlines the regulatory requirements for collecting marine vegetation commercially in New South Wales. A permit is required under Clause 56 of the Fisheries Management (Aquaculture) Regulation 2012 to collect specific species such as brown algae (Ecklonia radiata), bubble weed (Phyllospora), sea lettuce (Ulva lactuca), and other wrack. Collection is restricted in aquatic reserves, RAMSAR wetlands, and intertidal protected areas. The application process includes submitting detailed site maps, consulting with local councils and relevant authorities, and paying an application fee. Approved permits are valid for 12 months and require monthly harvest reporting.

Publisher: NSW Government

The NSW Land Based Sustainable Aquaculture Strategy (LBSAS) provides a best practice and regulatory framework to guide sustainable development of land-based aquaculture in New South Wales. It integrates business planning, species and site selection, farm design, environmental management, and streamlined approvals. The strategy emphasizes ecological sustainability, economic viability, and community support, outlining processes for risk assessment, biosecurity, waste management, and stakeholder engagement. A core component is the Aquaculture Industry Development Plan, which offers step-by-step guidance from planning to farm operation. The aim is to support the production of 5,000 tonnes of high-quality seafood from land-based systems in NSW by 2030.

Publisher: NSW Government

The NSW Seaweed Prospectus outlines a significant opportunity for New South Wales to develop a globally competitive seaweed industry, with a potential market value of up to A$2.3 billion by 2030. Focusing on high-value species such as Ulva spp., Ecklonia radiata, and Asparagopsis, the state is well-positioned due to its unique environmental resources, strong R&D capabilities, skilled regional workforce, and supportive infrastructure. The prospectus highlights NSW’s ability to integrate seaweed cultivation with existing aquaculture, repurpose wastewater and land resources, and develop value-added products across sectors like nutraceuticals, animal feed, bioplastics, and methane-reducing supplements, all supported by aligned government strategies and investment readiness.

Publisher: NSW Government

Year: 2023

The NSW Marine Waters Sustainable Aquaculture Strategy supports responsible, profitable offshore aquaculture by mapping suitable sites, enforcing environmental safeguards, and streamlining approvals. It guides industry and regulators to balance economic growth with ecological protection in NSW’s coastal waters.

Publisher: NSW Government

Year: 2018

https://www.uts.edu.au/partners-and-community/initiatives/uts-sustainability/sustainable-development-goals/partnerships-goals/seaweed-tech-bio-plastic-manufacture#:~:text=The%20SEAweed%20Tech%20project%20(SEA,proposition%20in%20a%20changing%20climate

https://news.csu.edu.au/latest-news/funding-allows-university-to-explore-depths-of-marine-bioproduct-industry

https://www.scu.edu.au/news/2023/urchin-grazing-of-kelp-seaweed-gametophytes-marine-science/

https://www.une.edu/UNE-Students-to-run-SeaMade-seaweed-company

https://www.newcastle.edu.au/research/centre/coastal-marine-science

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