Summary

This project builds upon existing government support structures, research, and identified industry needs to develop Aboriginal ownership and participation in Western Australia’s commercial fishing and aquaculture industries.

The project has three key focus areas:

1. De-risking new commercialisation pathways for three key species – sea cucumber, mud crab and black-lipped rock oyster – identified as suitable from the Northern Gascoyne waters through to the Kimberley.
2. Delivering an introductory workshop package on regionally appropriate commercial fishing and aquaculture opportunities to saltwater Aboriginal Corporations with authorised consent to operate on native title land and waters.
3. Drawing implications from the project back towards a Northern WA-wide policy and planning approach towards de-risking for Aboriginal fishing and aquaculture, consistent with the WA Aquaculture Development Plan.

Expected outcomes

The outcome of empowered and successful Aboriginal-led businesses in the aquaculture industry will be achieved through a strong, place-based approach that develops viable business opportunities that can attract investment and generate local employment and economic development.

Strategic planning around aquaculture opportunities will generate a consolidated set of learning and capability development that will assist aquaculture development across the north, in a shared and integrated mode including broader industry and markets and assist individual Aboriginal businesses to make informed decision that de-risk efforts to grow aquaculture in the north.