Proposed changes to the Marine Farming Planning Act tabled in parliament today will support Tasmania’s world class sustainable salmon farming sector as it grows to a $1 billion industry by 2030.
This is an important first step in a package of changes to ensure that industry regulations keep pace with industry expansion and that community and market confidence is maintained.
The current regulatory framework has operated effectively for 20 years and the industry as a whole has maintained a high standard of compliance with environmental and other management controls.
As an added safeguard, the purpose of the Marine Farming Planning Amendment Bill 2016 is to modernise and strengthen the penalty and enforcement provisions as the industry continues to expand.
The proposed new regime includes an additional penalty that is calculated proportionate to the financial advantage obtained and demerit points reintroduced for Infringement Notices which, for serial breaches could ultimately see a marine farming licence revoked.
In addition to these amendments, the independent Environment Protection Authority (EPA) will be responsible for all environmental controls and day-to-day environmental management from July 1.
The Government will also consult with the industry over the introduction of a new levy on salmon farming licences which will raise approximately $1.5 million over the forward estimates to help directly fund the assessment of industry proposals, tactical research and scientific projects specifically focused on expanding industry production.
These changes are further evidence of the Tasmanian Government’s commitment to support sustainable, responsible and accountable growth of the industry well into the future.
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