A major NSW Government investment aims to strengthen aquaculture and seafood industries statewide, with benefits for commercial fishers and producers in Ballina and the Northern Rivers.

OceanWatch Australia — the national not-for-profit that represents commercial fishers and seafood producers — says a major new NSW Government funding program will deliver important gains for innovation, sustainability and traceability across the state’s seafood sector.

CEO Lowri Pryce said the Aquaculture Industry Development Program will support the industry’s long-term future at a time when operators face increasing environmental, regulatory and market pressures.

“The Aquaculture Industry Development Program will benefit development and innovation across the seafood sector, including supply chain innovation, carbon net zero and seafood traceability initiatives,” Ms Pryce said.

“We know these grants will be well-received by commercial fishers in NSW who are looking for new opportunities to develop and innovate, to ensure a sustainable future for their industry.”

The comments are particularly relevant for Ballina, where commercial fishing and aquaculture remain core parts of the local economy and help support hundreds of jobs across the Northern Rivers.

State investment to support growth

The Minns Government’s $20 million Aquaculture Industry Development Program aims to strengthen and modernise farming operations for oysters, mussels, kelp, algae and both freshwater and marine fish hatcheries, while supporting new bioproduct industries.

Businesses can apply for grants from $500,000 to $2 million under two streams; the first is for projects involving infrastructure upgrades and productivity improvements, such as equipment replacement, supply chain enhancements and new product development.

The second covers projects focused on reducing carbon emissions, recycling materials and developing bioproducts, including initiatives that reuse oyster shells or converting equipment to lower-emissions alternatives.

Significantly, the funding can also be used to help operators prepare for incoming Country-of-Origin Labelling requirements for hospitality venues from 2026 and address environmental and biosecurity challenges.

Support for regional communities

Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said the investment will help strengthen coastal and regional economies.

“This program will deliver real economic benefits and jobs to regional and coastal communities by helping seafood businesses grow and become more efficient,” Ms Moriarty said.

NSW Farmers President Xavier Martin welcomed the program, saying it will help operators innovate, diversify and adapt to climate pressures.

Aboriginal organisations, including Aboriginal Community-Controlled Organisations, are strongly encouraged to apply.

Applications close Sunday 18 January 2026.