After facing unprecedented challenges over the past 24 months, Port Stephens oyster growers have finally been promised more support.
The NSW Government will waive a number of fees and charges for the 2022-23 financial year in recognition of the tough times throughout the industry recently.
Minister for Agriculture Dugald Saunders said oyster production had been significantly impacted by many natural disasters since 2020, including drought, bushfires and flooding.
“I’ve met with aquaculture industry groups across NSW who have expressed the need for ongoing government support after three years of hardship,” he explained.
“That sector, particularly in the Port Stephens region, has confronted serious challenges in recent years.
“And, the cumulative impacts of adverse weather events and harvest area closures have drastically impacted business operations.
“On top of that, the Port Stephens oyster industry was also dealt a huge blow with a widespread outbreak of QX disease, which has been devastating for the local area.
“To date, more than $2.5 million has been provided to the region to help oyster growers get back on their feet.
“We know how critical a role they play in the local economy and tourism industry.
“We’re also working on additional support packages.”
The waivers will be reflected in growers’ DPI Fisheries annual accounts.
The Department of Primary Industries (DPI) will work with the Food Authority and Crown Lands to manage the arrangement across those agencies.
Waivers include fisheries and aquaculture permit holder fees, Food Authority Shellfish Program annual fees and Crown Lands annual rental fees – and will apply to all oyster and mussel aquaculture permit holders in NSW.
For additional support and guidance, growers are encouraged to reach out to:
- Rural Financial Counsellors: North Coast www.rfcsnr.org.au
- DPI Rural Recovery Services: [email protected] or phone: 0448 077 684
A summary of support options for those in declared disaster areas is also available at https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/emergencies/floods/natural-disaster-assistance-guide.
