June 8, 2022

Jo Palmer, Minister of Primary Industries and Water

The Tasmanian Liberal Government continues to support the state’s oyster and shellfish industry to produce a premium, safe and quality product.

The 2022-23 budget includes $400,000 over four years to support the Tasmanian Shellfish Market Access Program (ShellMAP) through the provision of a program coordinator.

ShellMAP monitors Tasmanian waterways for possible microbial contamination, harmful algal blooms and other parameters that could impact the quality and safety of Tasmanian oysters.

These shellfish are often eaten raw or lightly cooked, hence the need to control food safety risks.

Our government runs ShellMAP to ensure that Tasmania’s incredible shellfish are enjoyed safely in Tasmania and around the world.

ShellMAP operates under a partnership agreement between the Government of Tasmania, Oysters Tasmania and the Tasmanian Seafood Industry Council (TSIC).

Oysters Tasmania chief executive Duncan Spender welcomed the $400,000 investment, saying the ShellMAP is a smart investment in the state’s seafood industry and unique natural environment.

“ShellMAP is a program reflecting a true partnership between oyster farmers and the state government. By ensuring Tasmanian oysters are always safe to eat, the ShellMAP program supports the growth of an industry that all Tasmanians can be proud of. “said Mr. Spender.

Under the ShellMAP partnership agreement, a key collaborative project is the sensor network grant to Oysters Tasmania. This will see up to 60 sensors installed in coastal waters around Tasmania for better management of shellfish concessions.

Mr Spender said the infusion of funds would support more effective management of the scheme, sophisticated scientific testing of our oyster meats and the state waters in which they grow, not only to ensure that Tasmanian oysters are still safe to eat, but to ensure other Tasmanian seafood is still safe to eat too.

Budget 2022-23 aims to strengthen Tasmania’s future and this investment will help us better understand and protect our waters, as well as the state’s own green brand.

For more information on ShellMAP, visit https://nre.tas.gov.au/biosecurity-tasmania/product-integrity/food-safety/seafood/shellfish-quality

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