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  Biosecurity for the Australian seaweed industry quantity

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The Australian seaweed industry has a vision to be a $1.5 billion industry by 2040, driven by increasing demand for sustainable food, bioactive compounds and innovative environmental applications. Australia’s vast and diverse marine environment holds immense potential for the cultivation of native seaweed species and the development of the industry.

Despite its infancy, the industry is poised to contribute significantly to both economic growth and environmental sustainability. However, expansion of seaweed aquaculture must be underpinned by robust biosecurity measures to ensure productivity, marketability and ecological integrity.

This project addresses a critical gap in the development of the industry, namely biosecurity planning. Globally, the intensification of seaweed aquaculture has been accompanied by an increase in pest and disease outbreaks, threatening crop viability and market access. Without strategic biosecurity measures, Australia’s fledgling industry risks similar vulnerabilities. Also, unmanaged biosecurity threats could negatively impact wild populations and marine ecosystems, undermining both environmental sustainability and public support for aquaculture activities.

The findings of this research highlight both the opportunities and challenges facing the Australian seaweed industry. Key discoveries include a recognition of knowledge gaps regarding specific pests and diseases of Australian seaweeds, alongside evidence from global practices demonstrating the effectiveness of generic biosecurity measures. The project’s outcomes emphasise the need for proactive management strategies to mitigate risks such as disease outbreaks, pest invasion, and genetic dilution. The report provides practical guidelines and a biosecurity action plan tailored to the unique characteristics and challenges of Australian seaweed aquaculture.

Producers and industry stakeholders are urged to integrate these biosecurity measures as a standard component of their operations. Doing so will not only protect individual enterprises but also ensure the collective resilience of the industry. By fostering a proactive biosecurity culture, the Australian seaweed sector can realise its potential as a sustainable and competitive player in the global market.

This work has been made possible through the dedication of researchers, industry representatives, and government stakeholders. Their collaborative efforts have laid the foundation for a thriving and resilient seaweed industry in Australia, one that balances economic opportunity with environmental stewardship.