Tassal set to grow barramundi production with $5 million in State Government funding

In an effort to support the aquaculture sector in northern WA, the State Government has announced a $5m investment aimed at bolstering sustainable finfish production in the Kimberley. The funding will assist Tassal, a leading name in the seafood production industry, to expand its operations at Cone Bay barramundi farm on the Kimberley’s Buccaneer Archipelago. Tassal cemented its presence in the area by acquiring MPA Fish Farms in August 2023 and operates the nation’s only ocean-based barramundi farm at Cone Bay. In December, Tassal also secured a seven-year lease for two sites at the Broome Tropical Aquaculture Park, laying the groundwork for a new nursery facility to enhance production capabilities further. The funds will be used to upgrade Cone Bay farm, including installing advanced sea cages, wildlife exclusion devices, and automated feeding and water monitoring systems. Tassal will also work closely with the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development on the $2 million redevelopment of the Broome Tropical Aquaculture Park at Gantheaume Point. Premier Roger Cook expressed his enthusiasm about the investment. “As Premier, I’m committed to attracting new and expanding business operations to WA to help diversify our economy, create quality local jobs and support emerging industries such as aquaculture, to grow. “It’s great news that Australia’s largest seafood producer Tassal will be expanding its operations in the Kimberley and supplying more of its famous ocean-grown barramundi to customers around the world.” Fisheries Minister Don Punch said the aquaculture industry in WA had great potential with the investment. “The Cook Government looks forward to working with Tassal to expand its seafood operations in the Kimberley region, which will secure more local job opportunities and help drive aquaculture development in northern WA,” he said. Kimberley MLA Divina D’Anna said the investment would have a significant impact on employment and economic growth in the region. “Further investment in aquaculture in the Kimberley presents exciting opportunities for increased employment and economic growth in the region,” she said. This investment comes as part of the State Government’s Investment Attraction Fund, managed by Invest and Trade WA.