New round of funding for Aboriginal commercial fishing, tourism, research and education projects

31 May 2023

NSW Minister for Agriculture, Tara Moriarty, today announced applications were open for a new round of the Aboriginal Fishing Trust Fund (AFTF) with a total of $500,000 on offer.

Ms Moriarty said the AFTF assists Aboriginal commercial fisheries, aquaculture and aquatic tourism-related businesses, as well as fisheries research and cultural education that promotes and protects cultural fishing across the State.

“The NSW Government recognises the significance fishing has to Aboriginal communities and culture, as well as the vital role the Trust Fund plays in promoting cultural fishing and economic opportunities,” Ms Moriarty said.

“We are committed to the protection and enhancement of Aboriginal cultural and commercial fishing activities.”

Ms Moriarty said applications supported last financial year included:

• the purchase of capital equipment for an existing family-operated coastal commercial fishing business
• the establishment of a new carp removal service
• four cultural fishing related camps/workshops across NSW, and
• a research project to document traditional uses of seaweed and to revitalise cultural fishing.

The call for applications for the new funding round will open today (31 May) and close on 25 August 2023.

NSW Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty, David Harris, is encouraging Aboriginal businesses and communities to apply for funding in this current round of the AFTF.

“I look forward to new projects being supported and continuing to make a meaningful difference to Aboriginal communities across NSW,” Mr Harris said.

“Priority areas for funding include those in areas of research, education and training, fishing access and facilities, aquatic habitat rehabilitation and protection, the enhancement of cultural fishing and providing economic opportunities.”

An overview of the Trust Fund, guidelines and application forms for applicants and information on projects that have been funded to date can be accessed on the DPI Aboriginal Fishing Trust Fund webpage.

MEDIA:
Daniel Dew | Minister Moriarty | 0436 357 688
Rhys Zorro | Minister Harris | 0466 180 454