‘We will remain prosperous’: Australian seafood industry welcomes 2021-22 Federal Budget
Seafood Industry Australia (SIA), the national peak-body representing the Australian seafood industry, has welcomed the 2021-22 Federal Budget, calling it a win for businesses and Australia’s oceans.
“The Federal Government has moved decisively in this Budget and helped carve out a path to recovery for the many industries, including the Australian seafood industry, impacted by the events of the past two years,” SIA CEO Veronica Papacosta said.
“The 2021-22 Budget builds on the Morrison Government’s recognition of the role seafood and primary production plays in Australia’s COVID-19 and natural disaster recovery, while reaffirming the government’s support of the Australian seafood industry. Treasurer Josh Frydenberg’s agenda will accelerate the whole of agriculture’s growth, and the contribution Australia’s seafood industry makes to the nation’s bottom line.
“The Morrison Government has committed to continue working closely with the Australian seafood industry so that we remain prosperous, and ready to face the opportunities, and any challenges, that await us in the future. The Coalition has announced investments of more than $100 million to protect our oceans, $20 million to advance data technology, $371 million to tackle biosecurity, $2.3 billion for mental health, $231 million to establish the national climate service, and an extension of asset write-offs provisions for an additional 12-months.
“The announcement of additional trade support will allow Australia’s wild-catch fishers and aquaculturists to deliver produce to key international markets including China, Japan, Singapore, and the United States. The appoint a new international agriculture envoy will be dedicated to protecting and promoting Australia’s international interests. This measure builds on current initiatives designed to support export growth, including the Busting Congestion for Agricultural Exporters package announced in the 2020-21 Budget and the Agri-Business Expansion Initiative announced in December 2020, which is essential for Australia’s agriculture and fisheries industries to achieve the goal of $100 billion in output by 2030.
“The Australian Government has been a strong supporter of the Australian seafood sector throughout 2020 and early 2021, providing assistance through natural disasters, the coronavirus pandemic and trade disruptions to key domestic and international markets. The Morrison Government has committed to continue this support in 2021-22, and into the future.
“On behalf of our members, and the entire Australian seafood industry, SIA would like to thank the Coalition for their unwavering support and help to keep Australian seafood businesses and jobs afloat, and most importantly Australian seafood on the table right around the world.
“This budget is a win for Australian seafood businesses, and has the support of the Australian seafood industry.”
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For more information or to organise an interview with SIA CEO Veronica Papacosta please contact
SIA Media and Communications Manager Jessica McInerney
E: [email protected] M: 0420 695 431
