South Australian fishers and coastal businesses affected by the toxic algal bloom can now access financial relief, with the state and federal government unveiling their $28 million support package on Monday.
Commercial fishers can apply for grants of up to $100,000, while small businesses can access up to $10,000 if they’ve experienced a 30 per cent downturn.
The package was launched in Ardrossan on the Yorke Peninsula following a visit by Premier Peter Malinauskas to struggling oyster farmers.
Applications are open now, with the government promising to process claims within 15 days.
Immediate payments of $25,000 are available to commercial fishers who have closed for over a month or suffered a 50 per cent catch loss over a three-month period.
An additional payment of up to $75,000 will then be given to those who have experienced a 50 per cent reduction in turnover.
Fishing licensing fees for the September quarter will also be waived, with the fees to be reviewed on a quarter-by-quarter basis.
Additional funding will support water monitoring, fish stock assessments, and the creation of a local toxin-testing lab.
