The NSW Government will deliver critical relief to the State’s commercial fishing, aquaculture and charter boat industries with Minister for Agriculture Adam Marshall today announcing $9 million in direct industry support.
Mr Marshall said it had been a challenging year for the State’s seafood sector, with devastating bushfires and COVID-19 taking a toll on industry.
“The combination of bushfires and now COVID-19 has presented significant challenges to the State’s seafood sector, with many operators experiencing disruptions to business as well as reduced demand for products due to the closure of restaurants and a reduction in tourists,” Mr Marshall said.
“We know our seafood industries play a key role in coastal economies and we are committed to providing the best support possible to not only see them through these difficult times, but to see them flourish once again when circumstances improve.
“We’ve worked directly with industry to determine what action can be taken to deliver immediate relief, which is why we’re slashing the cost of doing business by waiving fees and charges for 12 months, as well as investing in industry stimulus programs.
“A key component of this support is assisting industry to develop technologies that will help them be more resilient to change and provide greater business flexibility along the supply chain.
“The State’s seafood industries will be crucial to the recovery of our regional communities up and down the coastline, generating over half a billion dollars in economic activity each year and employing more than 4000 people.”
Minister for Water, Property and Housing Melinda Pavey said the NSW Government would also provide relief to oyster growers and fishing cooperatives, whose businesses have been some of the hardest hit during the bushfires and COVID-19 pandemic.
“Our seafood sector needs immediate relief from business costs that continue to put pressure on them,” Mrs Pavey said.
“We’ve listened to their concerns and by waiving Government rents, we are putting money back in their pockets and in their businesses right now.”
The $9 million support package includes:
- $4 million in fee waivers for Commercial Fishers
- $2.1 million in fee waivers and rent relief for the Aquaculture industry
- $200,000 in fee waivers for the Charter Boat Fishing Sector
- $500,000 in rent relief for fishing cooperatives located on Crown land
- $2.2 million in industry stimulus programs
Fees will be automatically waived for commercial fishing, aquaculture and charter boat industries; there is no need to apply.
Businesses that have already paid the management charges will receive a credit on their account with the Department of Primary Industries (DPI).
For any questions regarding fee relief, please contact DPI on 1300 720 662.
