Aquaculture Policy Principles 

With regard to the principles of ESD (see Policy Framework), the Northern Territory Fisheries Act and regulations, and considering the commitments made under the National Aquaculture Policy, a set of principles which form the basis for all operational policy development for the department's aquaculture division have been developed. These are:

1. DRDPIFR will support aquaculture development in line with other sectors in a manner consistent with its commitments to ESD principles, as set out in departmental legislation, regulations and policies.
2. DRDPIFR will work with other Territory departments to coordinate policy development, integrate regulatory frameworks and improve service delivery.
3. DRDPIFR will make every effort to understand the needs of the aquaculture industry and to respond in a manner that is solutions oriented and supportive of aquaculture development.
4. DRDPIFR will communicate with Territorians and consider their views on issues of public concern in a fair and transparent manner, based on science and risk-management approaches.
5. DRDPIFR will recognise the aspirations of indigenous people and will work with them to facilitate participation in aquaculture development.
6. Recognising that aquaculture is a legitimate use of land, water and aquatic resources, DRDPIFR will work to provide aquaculturists with predictable, equitable and timely access to resources.

   DRDPIFR is committed to creating policy conditions that increase both the public's confidence that aquaculture is being developed in a sustainable manner and the aquaculture industry's competitiveness in domestic and global markets.

   The summary objectives of this policy framework are to:

   • shape the development of future departmental aquaculture policies and programs;
   • guide the development of operational policies for the application of DRDPIFR's regulatory responsibilities in relation to aquaculture; and
   • clearly convey to other government departments, the aquaculture industry, Indigenous groups and other stakeholders, the framework within which DRDPIFR is committed to take action.