Coming from a fishing town like Lakes Entrance, it is surprising to learn that over 60 per cent of seafood consumed in Australia is imported.
While not illegal, the issue is that consumers in a fishing hub like Lakes Entrance naturally presume they are eating local produce — particularly when dishes feature iconic species such as flathead on the menu.
Following a one-year transition period, ready-to-eat food service businesses including cafes, hotels, food trucks and fish and chip shops are now required by law to state whether the seafood they serve is Australian or imported.
Under the legislation, the AIM model (A — Australian, I — Imported, or M — Mixed) must be displayed on menus, display boards, online ordering platforms, or signage.
Despite non-compliance carrying fines of up to $20,000, a significant proportion of businesses are failing to adhere to the new standards or make efforts to comply.
Simon Boag, executive officer of the Lakes Entrance-based South East Trawl Fishing Industry Association (SETFIA), said he was surprised by the lack of compliance locally.
“Lakes Entrance has some of the worst seafood labelling in Australia,” Mr Boag said.
SETFIA has been highlighting local menus on its Facebook page, showcasing examples of both poor and compliant labelling practices.
“In Lakes Entrance, there doesn’t seem to be a lot of Australian fish available, and to make matters worse, some businesses are using misleading labelling practices,”
Mr Boag said.
“Many of these venues operate within 100 metres of the fishing fleet, so people naturally assume the supply is local.
“We are not against imported fish, but the public has a right to know what they are buying and get what they pay for. Australian fishers are happy to compete, but it is disappointing that the South East Trawl Fishery — Australia’s most trusted fresh fish supply and the largest fleet supplying Melbourne and Sydney — has to compete against misleading labels.
“It is only a matter of time before the ACCC penalises a local business for misleading its customers,” he said.
One Lakes Entrance local welcomed the push for enforcement.
“Honest labelling gives us the choice to pay a bit extra for Australian fish,” they said.
“Without it, we could unknowingly be buying Basa farmed overseas with added nutrients and antibiotics.
“It should be our choice.”
