NSW Oyster Industry

  • In 2023-24, the NSW oyster industry produced about 70 million oysters worth $78 million at the farm gate. (Link)
  • There are ~230 oyster farming businesses in NSW, spread across 30 coastal estuaries. 
  • Three species of oysters are grown in NSW - Sydney rock oysters, Pacific oysters and Native oysters.
  • ​It can take between 12 months and 4 years for an oyster to grow to a marketable size, depending on the species and growing area. 
  • The industry operates with a very low carbon footprint, calculated to be 3.75 kg CO2e for every 100 grams of protein produced.  (Link)
  • Oysters are considered the 'canaries of the waterway', a sentinal species and a wonderful indicator of estuary health. 
  • In 2021-22, the NSW aquaculture lease based sector supported 472 fte direct, on-farm jobs. Flow-on business activity was estimated to generate a further 312 fte jobs, summing to 784 fte jobs in total throughout the state. (Link).
NSW Oyster Farming Estuaries
How are oysters grown?

Oyster farmers in NSW employ a variety of farming methods in different areas of an estuary. Each method has advantages and disadvantages, and the choice of a particular technique depends on personal preference as well as the location and features of the lease area. A brief overview of different farming methods and stages of production can be found in this fact sheet.  ​
Oyster Species
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Sydney rock oysters (Saccostrea glomerata) are endemic to Australia, and are found between Harvey Bay (QLD) and Wingam Inlet (VIC). Sydney rock oysters are farmed extensively throughout NSW, and account for ~90% of oyster production in the state.
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Pacific oysters (Magallana gigas) were originally introduced into Australia from Japan, and are now grown in South Australia, Tasmania and in select estuaries in NSW. Pacific oysters grow quicker than Sydney rock oysters, and can reach market size in just 18 months.
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Angasi oysters (also known as native, flat or mud oysters - Ostrea angasi) are endemic to Australia, found across the cooler, southern states.
Photo Gallery

Contact

Andy Myers
E: [email protected]
M: 0488 656 366

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OceanWatch Australia is the National Marine NRM, recognised and supported by the Australian Government through the National Landcare Program.

The NSW Oyster Industry Extension Officer is funded through the NSW Aquaculture Trust and the NSW Landcare Program. The NSW Landcare Program is a collaboration of Local Land Services and Landcare NSW Inc. supported by the NSW Government.