Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Tony Burke today joined the Commonwealth Fisheries Association in hosting an event at Parliament House, Canberra to promote the nation’s seafood industry.

The annual ‘Our seafood industry’ event helps to build a strong relationship between the industry and Members of Parliament, many of whom have ocean or inland fisheries, or aquaculture facilities in their electorates.

“Australian seafood is the healthiest, freshest and best-tasting seafood in the world,” Mr Burke said.

“The Rudd Government recognises the importance of the Australian seafood industry – not only to provide healthy food for families, but to support regional jobs and boost tourism.

“Our seafood industry generates more than $2.2 billion for the national economy, but it is facing challenging times.

“Tonight is an opportunity to ensure our elected representatives understand the pressures on the seafood industry, including global fuel prices.”

Mr Burke said aquaculture provided some of the seafood consumed by Australian families and would continue to have a role in the sustainability of local seafood.

“I’ve seen the innovative work underway in the aquaculture industry, including visits to ocean pens and land-based breeding facilities in South Australia,” Mr Burke said.

The Minister announced that the National Aquaculture Council and the Commonwealth Fisheries Association will be made representative organisations on the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation (FRDC).

The move will ensure fishers and aquaculture producers are consulted on the FRDC’s important work.

“Research will be essential to retain a vibrant seafood industry which can survive the pressures of rising global input costs and climate change,” Mr Burke said.

Last week, the Minister participated in the launch of a new campaign at the Sydney Fish Market to promote the commercial fishing industry in Sydney and regional areas of NSW.

The Fish Market promotional campaign was supported with $500,000 from the Australian Government.

The Rudd Government is also finalising the $10 million Seafood Productivity and Innovation Program, to help boost innovation and competitiveness in the seafood industry.

Source : Media release Ministry of Agriculture Fisheries and Forestry