The state government will provide immediate, backdated fee relief for commercial fishers, aquaculture and charter boat operators impacted by the algal bloom affecting South Australia’s coastline.

It says a significant harmful algal bloom, caused by the species Karenia mikimotoi, has been impacting large areas of South Australia’s coastline since March 2025. The naturally occurring algal bloom has caused widespread marine mortalities and disruption to commercial fisheries and aquaculture operations.

Some operators in the Marine Scalefish Fishery have experienced declines in catch and economic viability, particularly in Gulf St Vincent, Kangaroo Island, and the Yorke Peninsula. 

Some oyster growers and pipi harvesters have also been affected. Charter boat operations and fisheries around the River Murray mouth and Lakes and Coorong have been impacted to varying degrees.

South coast fishing charter business Pirate's Sea Charter's has suspended operations indefinitely, posting to Facebook:

"Unfortunately we regrettably advise that we are currently NOT doing any charters due to the impact of the algal bloom in the Fleurieu region. The impact has been devastating to the area with fish becoming scarce and sparse. Please keep in touch and we hope to be back running charters soon!"

The business also operates The Pirate's Se Chest fish market in Encounter Bay and it is sourcing all its produce from outside the areas affected by the algal bloom to ensure safety.

On Friday 4 July, the state government hosted a forum with key stakeholders affected by the algal bloom and a number raised fee relief as a measure that could provide immediate help.

In recognition of the ongoing impact it will offer an initial relief package to affected licence holders to waive fees from April to June 2025, which will equate to an estimated $500,000 worth of fee relief.

Eligible fees for relief consideration include:

• PIRSA Fisheries and Aquaculture annual licence fees.
• Biosecurity SA Food Safety Scheme and audit fees.
• Aquaculture lease and licence fees.

Acting Premier and Environment Minister Susan Close says the state government has been meeting with commercial fishers and tourism operators to better understand the impacts harmful Karenia mikimotoi algal bloom has had on their businesses.

“As well as today’s fee relief, the State Government continues to explore research priorities and industry supports so we can help to mitigate future outbreaks and the effect it has on industry.

“We will continue to work with the fishing and tourism industries to support them through this difficult time and continue to look at research and recovery investment options.”

Ben Barnes is Chairperson of the South Australian Professional Fishers Association and has welcomed the announcement of fee relief. 

“This support recognises the severe and sustained disruption our fishers have faced over recent months, with many experiencing reduced catches, lost income, and long-term uncertainty.

“Waiving licence and associated fees during this period is a practical and appreciated step that will help ease financial pressure while operators work to recover from the impacts of this natural event.” 

Shadow Environment Minister and Finniss MP David Basham has welcomed the fee relief but says it does not go far enough and falls short of addressing the full scale of the crisis in SA waters.

He says many impacted businesses are small, family-run operations and communities that need clear information, ongoing support, and a plan for recovery.

"Our main concern is that without further action to address cost recovery pressures and urgent cash flow support, many licensed fishers may be forced out of the industry permanently.

“We also don't know the true impact of the algal bloom on fish stocks - nor do we know how long it will take to recover from what has been described as a bushfire underwater.

“After a bushfire, there are systems and processes in place which allow for plans to be developed, and damage to be assessed - the algal bloom is no exception, and there must be measures like this in place to ensure the sustainability of the fishing industry moving forward.

The Department of Primary Industries and Regions will continue working with the Marine Fishers Association, the South Australian Professional Fishers Association and the South Australian Oyster Growers Association  to assess the scale of the impact and target support.

Impacted licence holders are encouraged to work with their industry association to access the fee relief process. Industry associations are compiling claims and submitting them to PIRSA for assessment.

Those who are not members of an association can contact PIRSA directly via telephone on 8207 5332, or via email. 

Fisheries and aquaculture licence holders facing financial hardship due to the algal bloom are eligible for the South Australian Government Rural Support Grant, administered by the RBS Relief Fund, where individuals can receive up to $1,500 in financial assistance to help cover essential household expenses such as utilities, groceries, rates and medical costs.

Support is also available for licence holders facing financial hardship through the Rural Financial Counselling Service and the Family and Business Support Program.

For more information visit the PIRSA website.