Territory leads tropical oyster research
The Northern Territory Government is delivering world-leading research on Blacklip Rock Oysters with a team of NT scientists.
Blacklip Rock Oysters are a native species of tropical oyster found throughout the Northern Territory which have never been produced commercially.
Through the $5.2 million Blacklip Oyster Project, the Northern Territory Government is driving research into the development of the native oyster and the Aquaculture Industry in the Northern Territory.
Blacklip Rock Oyster farming is an emerging industry in the Northern Territory that presents opportunities to create hundreds of working opportunities and economic benefits for Aboriginal communities.
Entering into the second phase, the project is progressing development into commercial viability and bringing the oysters to market through Aboriginal communities and corporations, some include the Yagbani Aboriginal Corporation, Groote Aqua Aboriginal Corporation, and Tiwi Resources.
This research trial further supports building local experience and capacity in Aboriginal communities, with the ultimate aim of having communities grow and profit from the sale of these oysters themselves.
A total of $5.2 million has been invested into project since its formation in 2020, in an effort to grow the Aquaculture industry which is worth $62.5 million to the Territory’s economy and support local community through meaningful work opportunities.