Fisheries Research and Development Corporation

About FRDC

The Fisheries Research and Development Corporation (FRDC) is tasked with planning and investing in fisheries research, development, and extension (RD&E) activities to support the sustainability and productivity of Australia's aquatic resources. FRDC serves Indigenous, aquaculture, commercial and recreational fishing.

To better engage the innovation community and increase the impact for Australian fisheries and aquaculture, FRDC has partnered with Artesian Investments to build a venture capital fund. Once operational, the fund will invest in startups developing scalable, disruptive technologies that address key fishing and aquaculture challenges and create long-term value.

Funding

FRDC is funded by the Australian Government and the fishing and aquaculture sectors. The Australian Government contributes 0.5% of the average gross value of Australian fisheries production (AGVP) for the last three years. Industry contributions (voluntary or levied) are also matched by the government up to a maximum of 0.25% of AGVP. These funds support the RD&E and innovation activities of FRDC and its industry partners.

Strategic priorities

FRDC invests in people and innovation to ensure healthy aquatic environments for thriving fishing and aquaculture. Strategic priorities are described in the FRDC RD&E Plan 2025 - 2030.

1. Growing, resilient and innovative. Enduring growth and resilience to challenges, through innovation.
2. Best practices and production systems. Diverse economic, ecological and social benefits through best practice aquatic resource use.
3. Capable and diverse people. Promoting diversity, growing participation, and developing skilled, adaptable people.
4. Secure access and resource allocation. Fair and integrated management of aquatic resources, providing certainty and confidence.
5. Community trust, acceptance and value. People share, use and feel positive about fishing and aquaculture’s products, services and experiences.