A grassroots-driven campaign to put NSW seafood on more plates in more restaurants and at more events has been unveiled by the State Government and Industry today.
The NSW Government will deliver $500,000 in grants, under the Eat More NSW Seafood 2021 program, for industry stakeholders to promote their fresh, local produce.
Minister for Agriculture Adam Marshall said after industry was impacted the recent floods it was now more important than ever to buy local seafood and this program would put NSW produce front and centre for both businesses and customers.
"Our produce is world-class, so today we have launched a campaign to support local businesses and see plates piled with fish, oysters, mussels and more caught from NSW waters," Mr Marshall said.
"The State's seafood businesses have been hit hard by natural disasters, so there's never been a more important time to support them and buy locally.
"The Eat More NSW Seafood 2021 program will mean fishing businesses can apply for grants from a $500,000 funding pool to make sure their sea-sourced grub is the first choice for hungry locals and visitors.
"Applicants could organise an event, run a marketing campaign or just focus on selling more local catches. Anything that promotes our high quality seafood and its benefits.
"Whether it's prawns from Pambula, snapper caught at Coffs Harbour or kingfish at Kingscliff – hook in!"
Mr Marshall said funding would be delivered in two streams, including grants for small scale projects (under $10,000) and grants for large scale projects ($10,000-$100,000).
"I am excited the NSW Government has partnered so closely with the NSW Seafood Industry Council which will administer the program," Mr Marshall said.
"Our seafood industry is worth $174 million a year but it's vital we still support and protect it from the impacts of floods, COVID-19, trade disruptions, bushfires and drought."
NSW Seafood Industry Council Chair Bryan Skepper said close collaboration with government was the best way to ensure the future of the NSW seafood industry.
"If our seafood businesses can better promote their produce, they will be able to get more local seafood on NSW plates," Mr Skepper said.
"That's why we're excited to be working hand-in-hand with the NSW Government to showcase our world-leading seafood."
