A message from the Minister for Primary Industries, Fisheries and Rural and Regional Queensland - The Honourable Tim Mulherin:

Aquaculture is an emerging industry that could help secure the world's future food needs, and Australian farmers are well placed to take advantage of the opportunities on offer.

Speaking at the Australian Prawn and Barramundi Conference in Townsville today, Minister for Primary Industries, Fisheries and Rural and Regional Queensland Tim Mulherin said aquaculture was developing and expanding in almost all regions of the world.

"Worldwide aquaculture production was worth more than $95 billion dollars in 2007 and the industry is set to overtake capture fisheries as a source of food fish," he said.

"It's the fastest growing animal food-production sector in the world and its importance to global food security and rural socio-economic development is increasingly being recognised.

"Locally, it offers substantial employment and economic activities and is set to become a major contributor to the growth of Australia's food production and exporting in dustries."

Mr Mulherin said the development of a sustainable aquaculture industry was a priority for the Queensland Government and the industry was attracting significant investment.

"Queensland aquaculture production totaled $78.8 million dollars in 2007-08," the Minister said.

"This represents more than 27 per cent of total fisheries production in Queensland and the industry is continuing to grow.

"When you consider the additional economic contribution it makes throughout the supply chain, commercial aquaculture is a very important industry for Queensland."

Mr Mulherin said the government's ongoing work with industry, including research and development had increased productivity.

"We're working to remove road blocks to the profitable prawn and barramundi sectors to ensure this valuable industry continues to grow and profit," he said.

"Scientists at our Northern Fisheries Centre in Cairns are working with farmers to develop a number of alternative species, such as cod and grouper.

"Our scientists in South East Queensland are developing technology that will enable farmers to breed only female prawns to enhance productivity.

"Females grow faster and larger, meaning bigger profits for farmers and more prawns for Queensland seafood lovers.

"We are also researching consumer needs and preferences when it comes to seafood.

"This will allow us to develop diets for aquaculture species that will incorporate antioxidants and specific flavour components to make them taste better."

Mr Mulherin said QPIF was leading an aquaculture planning initiative for both marine and land-based aquaculture.

"Taking a planned approach to future aquaculture development will provide greater confidence and clarity to industry and the community," he said.

"This will assist the aquaculture industry in Queensland to attract investment, which will also provide jobs.

"Queensland aquaculture has a clean, green and safe reputation and works hard to maintain high standards.

"With the right planning and support, Queensland's aquaculture industry will continue to thrive."

The Minister will host a forum in September with key state and federal stakeholders to investigate better ways to support and grow Queensland's aquaculture industry. 29 July 2009.