The upcoming State Budget will include a $1.2 million capital investment to create a world-class biotoxin testing facility in Hobart for Tasmania’s shellfish industry.
The $1.2 million will enable facilities to be upgraded within the Analytical Services Tasmania (AST) at New Town.
Currently the complex testing for shellfish biotoxins is conducted interstate which can create a costly delay for growers and uncertainty in the market.
The upgrade to the AST will result in faster testing times, which will in turn help improve industry profitability and protect Tasmania’s quality brand.
The state-of-the-art facility will undertake the compliance testing required to ensure the highest possible product quality which is fit for local, national and international sale, and will provide the service needed for the industry to maintain and grow its high value export products.
Local biotoxin testing facilities will not only benefit oyster growers but also the rock lobster, abalone, scallop and clam industries which combined are making a contribution of more than $200 million dollars a year to our economy.
The development of the new facilities is the result of collaboration between the Tasmanian Seafood Industry Council, Oysters Tasmania and the State Government and is a great example of working together to protect the industry’s capacity to achieve continued growth in the seafood sectors.
Biotoxin testing is a great practical example of our comprehensive Agri-Food Plan in action, by protecting the Tasmanian brand through upholding food safety and product integrity.
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