State government, the Mercury’s Big Issues survey results both back in salmon industry

The state government is once again backing the salmon industry amid its uncertainty following a tour of Storm Bay and Tassal facilities. Here’s how many Tasmanians share the same view.

Liberal Senator Jonno Duniam, Environment Minister Madeleine Ogilvie and Salmon Tasmania CEO Luke Martin speak to the media on the Hobart waterfront on Thursday, January 9, 2025.

Environment Minister Madeleine Ogilvie has sung the praises of the aquaculture industry after an inspection tour of Storm Bay and the Tassal Remote Operations Centre.

Ms Ogilvie was joined by Liberal Senator Jonno Duniam and Salmon Tasmania CEO in again calling on the federal government to announce its decision about the future of the industry in Macquarie Harbour.

“As Environment Minister, I take it very seriously that I have an obligation to go and see first-hand what is happening with industries such as this,” Ms Ogilvie said.

“I’ve been down to the Maugean skate breeding program in Taroona as well and seeing what’s happening, it’s very successful. So these things can coexist.

“It’s really important for Tasmania that this industry continues to grow and thrive so many jobs connected to this important industry.

“It’s also great to see that the environmental side of things is tracking well.

“Some of the innovations that we’re able to see today and hear about today on the trip were quite remarkable.”

Tassal salmon pens, in Macquarie Harbour, Strahan, West Coast of Tasmania Picture: MATHEW FARRELL

Senator Duniam said federal Labor was walking both sides of the street on the issue — trying to win votes both in inner-city electorates interstate while campaigning in favour of salmon jobs in Braddon and Lyons.

Federal Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek is considering the industry’s future in the harbour after environment groups accused it of risking the survival of the of the endangered maugean skate.

“We have been waiting for more than a year for two Christmases for the federal government to make a decision about the future of this industry and this operation in Macquarie Harbour. “There is no reason the minister cannot act today and end the uncertainty.”

The Mercury’s Big Issues survey found majority support for the industry with 61.5 per cent of those who responded backing aquaculture and 55.7 per cent saying they bought and consumed Tasmanian salmon.

But only 46 per cent supported aquaculture continuing in Macquarie Harbour amid concerns about the skate.

Salmon Tasmania CEO Luke Martin. Picture: Linda Higginson

Salmon Tasmania CEO Luke Martin said the results demonstrated the majority of Tasmanians supported the salmon industry.

“ … and importantly, enjoy eating the healthy, sustainable and delicious local produce that our Tasmanian farmers grow,” he said.

“In fact, Australia’s love for Tasmanian salmon continues to grow, with strong sales reported both here and across the country, a result that the 5,000 plus Tasmanians employed in the industry can be immensely proud of.

“There is no doubt we have been targeted with a relentless campaign, spreading misinformation to put doubt in some people’s minds, however, we are very proud of the fact that more than half the Tasmanians show their support via their actions.

“Tasmanians can be confident that this industry is one of the most intensely regulated and highly scrutinised in the state. It is informed by some of the best marine scientists in the world and uses the most advanced technology available, something we all can be proud of.”

Mr Martin said feelings about Macquarie Harbour were different depending on where the question was asked.

“The Macquarie Harbour survey results are not surprising,” he said.

“We have done similar surveying statewide and found that support is very strong across the North and northwest where workers and other industries heavily rely on the industry.”

Originally published as State government, the Mercury’s Big Issues survey results both back in salmon industry