Tasmania’s thriving salmon industry has been identified as a key driver of the state’s regional economy, according to a new report from Deloitte.
The report was commissioned by Salmon Tasmania, representing major producers Tassal, Huon Salmon, and Petuna.
The industry generated over $770 million in 2022 alone, with more than 5100 jobs indirectly supported.
Salmon Tasmania CEO Luke Martin said that almost 90% of this economic activity occurred in regional communities, such as the Huon Valley, Latrobe, Tasman and West Coast areas.
The Deloitte report is the first comprehensive assessment of the salmon industry’s economic and social impact in Tasmania.
The report has been welcomed by Minister for Primary Industries and Water Jo Palmer, who praised the industry’s “incredible” contribution as Tasmania’s largest primary industry sector.
She said that the state government would back the sector, which is “economically successful, environmentally responsible, socially beneficial, and well-managed”.
However, the industry still faces challenges.
Opposition Primary Industries and Water Spokeswoman Janie Finlay said that the report showed the industry shouldn’t be taken for granted, and criticised the state government for holding the sector back.
She accused the Liberal Government of introducing a ‘moratorium’ and creating a salmon plan that has causes ‘great uncertainty and angst for both industry and community’.
