The amount of seafood (edible and non-edible) produced in Australia has steadily grown over the last decade to almost 300,000 tonnes per year. This growth is mostly driven by the expansion of prawn and salmon aquaculture and by increased tuna catch, as some wild stocks continue to recover. Australia differs from many other developed countries in that a significant proportion of Australian product, which could otherwise supply the domestic market, is sold to export markets.

​​​​State and territory regulations

While the Australian Government has a number of important functions in relation to aquaculture, state and territory governments have primary responsibility for regulating aquaculture in Australia.

If you are interested in starting an aquaculture business in Australia, your relevant state or territory government department can provide you with more information. The links below provide information on aquaculture in the states and Northern Territory.

Aquaculture is an increasingly important part of Australia’s seafood production. In 2024-25, the real gross value of Australia’s aquaculture production was estimated to have reached $2.31 billion. This accounts for up to 58% of the total gross value of Australia’s fisheries and aquaculture sector, which is estimated to be close to $4 billion.