Aquaculture Industry Development Program NSW

Purpose and Program Overview

The NSW Government runs the Aquaculture Industry Development Program to aid the aquaculture sector. The program provides up to $20 million in funding. It seeks to raise farmgate production by 2030 and improve productivity in commercial fishing. The program helps regional businesses update operations. This update boosts productivity, exports, and resistance to climate change effects. It also aids net zero and circular economy aims. The program develops skills in sustainable seafood and marine bioproducts. It opens access to new markets. It uses environmental and market shifts to make NSW a top provider of sustainable products.

Key Grant Details

• Grant amount or funding range: $100,000 to $2,000,000
• Application open and close dates: Opened 24 November 2025; closes 18 January 2026 at 4:00 pm
• Eligible industries or business types: Aquaculture permit holders, commercial fishing endorsement holders, natural resource management organisations, Aboriginal organisations and businesses, peak bodies, research organisations, universities, post-harvest sector organisations; Stream 2 also includes private entities serving aquaculture waste markets
• Required co-contributions: At least 20% of total project cost
• Location/state/territory applicability: NSW; specific local government areas such as Albury City, Armidale Regional, Ballina, and others listed in guidelines

Priority Sectors

The grant targets oysters, mussels, kelp, algae, freshwater and marine fish, and emerging bioproducts.

Funding Scope

• Minimum and maximum amounts per stream: $100,000 to $2,000,000 for both streams
• Categories or streams of funding: Stream 1 covers productivity improvements like infrastructure upgrades, supply chain innovation, and new product development; Stream 2 covers sustainability, like low-carbon conversions and research into bioproducts from waste
• Project timeline or eligible funding duration: Projects start within 6 months of the funding deed and finish within 4 years

Eligibility Criteria

• Business structure or size: Australian company, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Corporation, incorporated trustee, incorporated association or co-operative, Australian university, sole trader, partnership
• Registered business location: In eligible NSW local government areas
• Minimum/maximum turnover: No specific limit stated
• Insurance or compliance obligations: Public liability insurance of at least $20 million per occurrence
• ABN/GST status: Must hold an ABN; GST registration applies where relevant

Eligible Activities and Expenses

• Infrastructure and equipment upgrades for capacity, efficiency, sustainability, or quality
• Supply chain innovation benefiting multiple entities
• New product development, including new species or value-added lines
• Conversion of plant and equipment to low-carbon systems
• Research and development into bioproducts and seafood waste use
• Construction costs for development or upgrades
• Purchase of project-specific equipment
• Research costs leading to industry-applicable outputs
• Asset commissioning or decommissioning
• Staff training directly tied to the project

Assessment Process

The grant operates on a competitive basis. Staff check applications for compliance and eligibility. Feasible projects advance to merit assessment by a panel. The panel reviews outcomes and sends them to the Regional Development Advisory Council for input. The Minister for Regional NSW decides on successful applications.

Recent Program Updates

The program started in late 2025. It responds to new Country-of-Origin labelling rules effective from 2026.

Application Tips

Double-check all eligibility criteria. Prepare key documents in advance. Align the proposal with government priorities. Demonstrate capability, outcomes, and benefits.

Where to Get Help

Consider consulting a grant specialist for a personalised eligibility assessment and expert assistance in preparing a strong, compliant and competitive application. Contact Pattens Group today, and we will connect you with Australia’s best grant specialist, boasting over 35 years of experience in the industry and a 100% success rate. For official guidelines, application details, templates, and further information, visit the program’s official website and other associated Australian government websites.