The project "Harnessing the Aquaculture Potential of Queensland's Native Rock Oysters" addresses the urgent need to improve productivity and reverse the decline in oyster production in Queensland, Australia. By partnering with the Queensland Oyster Growers Association (QOGA) and other stakeholders, the project aims to establish new oyster farming options, technologies, and production systems. It focuses on three main species: Sydney Rock Oysters (SRO), Blacklip Rock Oysters (BRO), and Lineage G Rock Oysters (LGRO).

The project's objectives include improving hatchery and nursery production capacity, developing advanced molecular processes for reproductive capacity and spawning, and providing reliable spat production for BRO and LGRO farms. It also aims to conduct validation trials to assess the benefits of QX resistant strains of SRO in Southeast Queensland (SEQ) and develop best practice production protocols for specific SEQ farming locations. Additionally, the project aims to gather genetic information on BRO and LGRO distribution and diversity along Queensland's east coast to inform aquaculture potential and management decisions.

Overall, the project seeks to enhance oyster farm productivity, expand the industry within and beyond SEQ, and ensure sustainable and resilient oyster production through advanced technologies, improved genetic knowledge, and best practice protocols.