Fisheries
Around 80% of marine life in South Australian waters is found nowhere else on Earth. Our marine environments are more diverse and unique than even the Great Barrier Reef. South Australian waters support over 6,000 invertebrate species, 350 fish species, 16 breeding seabird species, 33 mammal species, 1,200 algae species, and 12 seagrass species. This rich diversity is due to the unique south-facing coastline, varying oceanographic conditions, and a wide variety of coastal and marine environments.
Our Unique Marine Environment
South Australia’s waters are home to some of the most diverse and unique marine ecosystems on Earth - more so than even the Great Barrier Reef. Our coastline supports:
- Over 6,000 invertebrate species
- 350 fish species
- 1,200 algae species
- 12 seagrass species
- 16 breeding seabird species
- 33 marine mammal species
This biodiversity is a direct result of our south-facing coastline, varied oceanographic conditions, and rich marine habitats. It’s a treasure worth protecting - not just for environmental reasons, but for the communities and industries that rely on it.
Responding to the Algal Bloom Crisis
The recent toxic algal bloom has devastated South Australia’s marine life and seafood industry. Stretching across thousands of square kilometres, it has caused mass deaths of fish, stingrays, octopi, and even iconic species like leafy seadragons. Oyster farms have been quarantined, fishing charters cancelled, and coastal communities left reeling.
I’ve raised urgent questions in Parliament and called for:
- Immediate support for affected oyster growers and fishers
- Transparent environmental monitoring and public reporting
- Scientific investigation into the causes—including climate change and desalination discharge
- A joint parliamentary inquiry to ensure long-term solutions and accountability
This crisis is a wake-up call. We must act now to protect our marine ecosystems and the livelihoods they support.
Last August I successfully proposed an amendment in the Legislative Council to the Emergency Management Act 2004 to explicitly list strategies relating to emergencies that cause or threaten to cause damage to marine environments, including marine flora and fauna.
Many of the actions taken by the government to address the algal bloom crisis thus far I have strongly advocated for, after extensive consultation with industry stakeholders in the seafood sector and coastal communities.
Marine Parks and Sustainable Harvesting
SA-BEST supports the Marine Park system introduced in 2012 to conserve biodiversity. We’ve worked closely with conservationists, fishers, and stakeholders to:
- Avoid unnecessary expansion of the marine park network during the statutory review period
- Allow non-invasive commercial harvesting of abalone within established marine parks
- Balance environmental protection with economic opportunity
Supporting the Fishing Industry
The fishing industry is the backbone of many regional communities and a key contributor to South Australia’s economy. SA-BEST is committed to:
- Reducing red tape and streamlining fisheries management
- Improving compliance regimes and cost recovery models
- Ensuring fair and efficient regulation that supports sustainability and growth
Country of Origin Labelling
SA-BEST helped secure Country of Origin Labelling laws for seafood in South Australia. Now, diners can know where their seafood comes from - supporting transparency and local producers.
Windfarm Advocacy
We successfully advocated against the proposed extension of the Southern Ocean Wind Zone into South Australian waters, protecting marine life and local industries from potential disruption.
Expert-Driven Policy and Accountability
SA-BEST prioritises expert advice over political ideology. We work with scientists, industry leaders, and community voices to deliver practical, sensible solutions. And while we don’t hold the purse strings, we hold governments accountable - especially when livelihoods and ecosystems are at stake.
