Summary

This project will continue to build on the foundational work undertaken by researchers at the Darwin Aquaculture Centre (DAC) as part of the initial Tropical Rock Oyster research and development project (A.2.1819053NT).

During the first phase of the CRCNA-funded project (2019-2023), significant progress was made, culminating in the development the world’s first hatchery manual for the Blacklip Rock Oyster (BRO). Over this period, hatchery production at DAC increased exponentially – from 10,000s to 100,000s spat per spawning run. This growth was driven  by improved hatchery techniques, enhanced through broodstock conditioning, settlement, and nursery trials conducted during the first project phase.

However, as production scaled up, new challenges emerged in the nursery phase, resulting in inconsistent spat yields. Further research is needed to optimise production and reduce variability between spawning runs.  This is critical to ensuring farms have consistent access to commercial quantities of advanced spat, which in turn builds industry confidence and encourages private investment.

The project will continue refining year-round supply of hatchery-reared spat (juvenile oyster), a fundamental requirement for commercialisation, investor confidence, and industry growth.

Extension and mentoring will also be provided to support oyster farmers and Indigenous communities, alongside farming trials across the Northern Territory.

Expected outcomes

Jobs and economic impact

An established Tropical Rock Oyster industry is expected to create more than 900 direct and indirect regional jobs in Northern Australia within 20 years, adding an estimated $217 million to the north’s economy. These jobs will be multi-disciplinary and include farm technicians, key trades, vessel operators, machinery supplier, processors and distributors. Oyster grow-out is a labour-intensive process due to the requirement for continual grading of oysters and management of oyster gear biofouling.

Increased investment

According to the Pilbara Development Commission, establishing a commercial farm producing 100,000 dozen oysters annually would require an investment of approximately $3 million.  In addition to commercial operations, there are significant opportunities for First Nations communities to participate in the industry – either as independent ventures or through joint ventures with shellfish aquaculture companies.

Social well-being

This project involves extensive First Nations participation in foundational research, industry development, and business planning. Direct access to researchers, agencies, and industry partners provides opportunities for community empowerment and informed decision-making regarding participation in this emerging industry – either directly or through partnerships. Access to training and hands-on experience in research and aquaculture supports First Nations aspirations for greater involvement in Sea Country management. It also fosters two-way capacity building and knowledge exchange between First Nations community researchers and industry, government and research organisations.