The shellfish industry in Western Australia is on the brink of significant growth following a substantial upgrade to the Albany Shellfish Hatchery. The state government has invested $3.6 million into expanding this facility, which will nearly double the production capacity of rock oyster spat. This expansion aims to meet the growing demand for edible oysters both locally and internationally. The new facilities, set to be completed soon, will provide a major boost to aquaculture businesses, creating new employment opportunities and enabling diversification within the industry. With increased production capabilities, companies like Leeuwin Coast and Abrolhos Island Oysters are already reaping the benefits, having harvested their first commercial batches of rock oysters from hatchery-supplied spat.

The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development’s Albany Shellfish Hatchery has long been a key player in supplying juvenile oysters to commercial growers and supporting industry trials. Now, with the addition of 650 square meters of new space, including advanced laboratories and grading facilities, the hatchery is poised to significantly enhance its output. The expansion also includes a new greenhouse and an enlarged indoor algae production area, ensuring that young oysters receive optimal nutrition during their early stages of development. Minister Don Punch and Albany MLA Rebecca Stephens recently visited the upgraded site, highlighting the importance of this investment for regional development and job creation.

As the upgrades near completion, the hatchery is expected to ramp up production starting in April. Currently producing around 22 million rock oysters annually, the facility aims to increase this figure to over 40 million. This surge in production will not only support existing businesses but also attract new ventures to the region. Companies such as Leeuwin Coast in Oyster Harbour and Abrolhos Island Oysters have already begun harvesting their first large-scale batches of rock oysters, thanks to the hatchery’s spat supply. The expanded nursery space and improved infrastructure will further facilitate the growth of these enterprises.

Once fully operational, the Albany Aquaculture Development Zone is projected to produce approximately 1,500 tonnes of shellfish annually, valued at an estimated $30 million. This ambitious target is expected to generate over 200 direct jobs, underscoring the economic impact of the project. The enhanced hatchery will play a pivotal role in meeting market demands and fostering sustainable growth within the shellfish sector. As the industry continues to expand, it promises to bring prosperity and innovation to the region, positioning Western Australia as a leading player in global aquaculture markets.