The Data Statistics and Numbers Behind Tasmania's Salmon Aquaculture Industry

Tasmania's salmon aquaculture industry produced 58,000 tonnes of salmon in the 2024-2025 financial year, with the majority coming from farms in Macquarie Harbour and Storm Bay. This represents a 10% increase on the previous year, according to data from the Tasmanian Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment.

The growth of the salmon industry matters now because of ongoing debates about environmental regulation and the impact of salmon farming on Tasmania's marine ecosystems. With the state government currently reviewing its environmental regulations for the industry, the numbers behind salmon aquaculture are under close scrutiny. The Tasmanian Salmonid Growers Association has argued that the industry is a significant contributor to the state's economy, while environmental groups such as the Tasmanian Conservation Trust have raised concerns about the effects of salmon farming on wild fish populations and marine habitats.

In local terms, the salmon industry is a major player in coastal communities such as Strahan and Dover, where many people are employed in the sector. Companies such as Tassal and Petuna Aquaculture have operations in these areas, and the industry is also supported by organisations such as the University of Tasmania's Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, which conducts research on salmon aquaculture and its environmental impacts. In Hobart, the industry is represented by the Tasmanian Salmonid Growers Association, which is based in the city's CBD on Elizabeth Street.

Key Statistics and Trends

According to data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the value of Tasmania's salmon aquaculture industry was $724 million in 2024-2025, up from $645 million in the previous year. The industry also supports over 1,200 full-time equivalent jobs in the state, with the majority of these in regional areas. In terms of production, the data shows that Macquarie Harbour is the largest producer of salmon in Tasmania, accounting for 43% of the state's total production in 2024-2025. Storm Bay is the second-largest producer, accounting for 26% of the state's total production. The data also shows that the industry is subject to significant variability in terms of production volumes and values, with factors such as disease outbreaks and changes in global market demand affecting the sector.

Looking ahead, the future of Tasmania's salmon aquaculture industry will depend on a range of factors, including the outcome of the state government's review of environmental regulations and the industry's ability to adapt to changing market conditions. With the Marinus Link undersea power cable project set to increase the state's energy capacity and reduce its reliance on fossil fuels, there may be opportunities for the salmon industry to reduce its environmental footprint and increase its sustainability. As the industry continues to grow and evolve, it will be important for stakeholders to closely monitor the data and statistics behind the sector, and to work together to address the challenges and opportunities that arise.