Lakes Entrance and the wider Gippsland Lakes region could benefit from a renewed push to grow Victoria’s seafood industry, with Seafood Industry Victoria outlining a strategy aimed at increasing local production and supporting
coastal communities.
The peak industry body has released its 2026 election priorities, proposing a $10 million plan to strengthen the sector, improve food security and support regional economic growth. Gippsland has been identified as a key area for expansion.
Despite Victoria’s reputation as a food destination, the state currently produces only about four per cent of Australia’s seafood. The plan aims to lift that share by supporting fisheries and aquaculture, with a focus on creating jobs in coastal towns such as Lakes Entrance, where commercial fishing remains an important part of the local economy.
A key proposal for the region is the expansion of Sydney Rock Oyster farming in the Gippsland Lakes, along with potential trials of Pacific Oyster production, which industry leaders
say could diversify output and create new opportunities for operators.
Matt Wassnig said the plan would help strengthen regional communities and improve access to locally produced seafood.
“Victorians want sustainable seafood produced locally and they want to see family businesses in regional communities thrive,” he said.
The strategy also includes modernisation measures such as digital catch reporting, improved recreational fishing data tracking and new tools for charter operators, aimed at supporting long-term sustainability.
Seafood Industry Victoria is urging all political parties to back the proposal ahead of the 2026 state election.
