The South Australian Government has today unveiled a $28 million support package in response to the harmful algal bloom crisis that continues to impact the state’s marine ecosystems, coastal communities, and seafood industries.
The announcement, signed off by the State Government’s Emergency Management Committee of Cabinet, outlines a multi-pronged strategy aimed at delivering immediate relief while investing in the long-term health of our coastlines and marine industries. The State Government will contribute $14 million, matching the Commonwealth’s funding, with programs rolling out immediately across science and research, industry and community support, communications, and clean-up.
More than $13 million of the funding will go directly towards science and research, with Premier Peter Malinauskas describing it as “a deliberately calibrated suite of measures” to meet the scale of this environmental challenge.
Key initiatives include the development of a coastal monitoring network to enable early detection and real-time tracking of harmful algal blooms through satellite imagery, oceanographic modelling, and in-water sensors ($8.5m). The establishment of a national testing laboratory in South Australia will cut the current turnaround time of biotoxin results, which are presently sent to New Zealand for analysis – a delay that has hampered local response efforts ($2m).
Rapid assessments of affected marine life and ecosystems are also underway, including underwater video and dive surveys across sanctuary zones and fish habitats ($3m). A dedicated harmful algal bloom response plan will also be developed to guide future crisis responses.
To ensure transparency and community trust, a Harmful Algal Bloom Taskforce will hold weekly meetings and media conferences. A public information campaign and single point of contact, including a hotline, website, and on-ground signage, will help keep both industry and the public informed. Funding will also support promotional efforts to rebuild confidence in seafood and marine-based tourism ($2m).
The harmful algal bloom has devastated marine life and disrupted coastal communities. A community fund of $3 million will back local projects and recovery initiatives in the hardest-hit regions, while $1 million in beach clean-up grants will assist local governments managing the removal of dead fish and marine debris.
Small businesses will receive $10,000 recovery grants, along with access to financial counselling, workforce advice, and mental health support. These resources are designed to help businesses develop continuity plans and navigate the ongoing effects of the bloom. These new measures build on the previously announced $1,500 support payments for primary producers and fee relief for affected industries.
New underwater vision released by the State Government shows the disturbing toll the algal bloom is taking on marine ecosystems. Filmed by the patrol vessel Southern Ranger near the Zanoni shipwreck and Aldinga Reef, the footage reveals significant damage to corals, sponges, and filter feeders, with early signs of stress visible in some areas.
As the bloom continues to evolve, the State Government has committed to remaining agile and responsive.
