Aquaculture has potential to create 2340 extra jobs in North Industry primed to boom
EDUCATION will be the key to developing a North Queensland industry primed to boom in the next decade.
A new report into the aquaculture industry has revealed it is set to increase production fivefold and exceed $1.34 billion in value, but first the industry will need to address its already prevalent jobs crisis.
CRCNA CEO Jed Matz said the James Cook University-led research was the first time a vision for the Northern Australia aquaculture industry had been articulated.
With the help of more than 400 industry representatives, the project team has identified recommendations that include bolstering biosecurity and the development of key aquaculture development hubs.
Mr Matz said there was opportunity for economic development in the industry.
“Aquaculture has already seen a bit of private investment, especially in Australia, because they’ve identified areas for development. So it’s about creating that policy and regulatory framework that attracts people and makes it easier for them to invest,” he said.
James Cook University professor Dean Jerry said the expansion would create 2340 direct jobs but skills providers would need to band together to ensure there was a skilled workforce available.
“Other institutions are getting interested in aquaculture at the vocational level; we’ve really got to kick that up because that’s where the majority of jobs will be located,” he said.
Herbert MP Phillip Thompson said the Federal Government would work with JCU to look at how the recommendations could be addressed.
Recommendations:
1. Bolster biosecurity;
2. Build skills to meet industry needs;
3. Market development and access;
4. Match and target research, development and education to key industry needs and outcomes;
5. Facilitate infrastructure development for key aquaculture development hubs;
6. Build the Northern Australian aquaculture industry as a means for indigenous economic development and independence; and
7. Stronger and adaptive governance of the area’s aquaculture industry.