Why expand marine aquaculture?
The establishment and allocation of leases within the Aquaculture Fisheries Reserves (AFRs) has the potential to support a significant expansion of the existing marine aquaculture sectors within Victoria and in particular, blue mussels and other shellfish. Not only are the leases expected to create the opportunity for substantial new development in the industry but it will also provide new job opportunities in regional Victoria and improve the international competitiveness of the industry. It is estimated that the economic impact of the Government investment and the implementation of the marine AFRs will be in the order of an additional $A30 million per annum and an additional 500 jobs.
