Fee relief for fishers impacted by SA algal bloom
The state government will waive licence fees for fishers affected by a harmful algal bloom that’s caused widespread marine mortalities off the coast of South Australia.
An estimated $500,000 of fee relief will be handed to fishers impacted by the harmful algal bloom off the coast of South Australia.
Announced today, affected licence holders will have certain fees waived immediately, and backdated from April.
Licence holders impacted by the algal bloom, caused by the species Karenia mikimotoi, were told to work with industry associations to access the fee relief process.
Eligible fees for relief consideration include:
- PIRSA Fisheries and Aquaculture annual licence fees
- Biosecurity SA Food Safety Scheme and audit fees
- Aquaculture lease and licence fees
The algal bloom has been impacting large areas of the state’s coastline since March 2025, and has caused widespread marine deaths and disruption to commercial fisheries and aquaculture operations.
Operators in Gulf St Vincent, Kangaroo Island and the Yorke Peninsula have experienced declines in catch and economic viability, the government said.
Oyster growers and pipi harvesters have also been affected, as well as charter boat operations and fisheries around the River Murray mouth and Lakes and Coorong.
The Department of Primary Industries and regions (PIRSA) said it would continue working with the Marine Fishers Association (MFA), the South Australian Professional Fishers Association (SAPFA) and the South Australian Oyster Growers Association (SAGOA) to assess the scale of the impact and target support.
“We welcome the Malinauskas Government’s announcement of fee relief for commercial fishers impacted by the ongoing algal bloom,” South Australian Professional Fishers Association chairperson Ben Barnes said.
“This support recognises the severe and sustained disruption our fishers have faced over recent months, with many experiencing reduced catches, lost income, and long-term uncertainty.
Stay informed, daily
“Waiving licence and associated fees during this period is a practical and appreciated step that will help ease financial pressure while operators work to recover from the impacts of this natural event.”
Climate, Environment & Water Minister and Deputy Premier Susan Close said the government hosted a forum with key stakeholders last Friday, where some raised fee relief as a measure that could provide immediate help.
“As well as today’s relief, the state government continues to explore research priorities and industry supports so we can help mitigate future outbreaks and the effect it has on industry,” Close said.
“We will continue to work with the fishing and tourism industries to support them through this difficult time and continue to look at research and recovery investment options.”
