How could the classification of Centro as an invasive species affect Jeremy Rockliff?
The instability of short-term funding cycles may threaten Tasmania's kelp recovery efforts. The classification of the long-spined sea urchin, Centro, as an invasive species in Tasmania necessitates a state program to control its numbers and allow kelp forests to rebound. This program relies on financial incentives, such as the Abalone Industry Reinvestment Fund (AIRF), which the state allocates. However, researchers warn that the shift to short-term, one-year funding cycles for this program undermines the stability required for harvesters and puts the kelp recovery efforts on wobbly ground. As the Premier, Jeremy Rockliff oversees the state government responsible for these critical funding and management decisions.
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How it reaches Jeremy Rockliff
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The long-spined sea urchin, also known as Centro, has been classified as an invasive species in the waters around Tasmania. This species has been consuming kelp forests in the state's waters. A state program provides financial incentives to support a commercial fishery aimed at reducing urchin numbers and allowing kelp to rebound.
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The state program, which includes the Abalone Industry Reinvestment Fund (AIRF), relies on continuous state allocation to maintain the commercial fishery and control efforts. Researchers warn that the current shift to short-term, one-year funding cycles threatens the stability of this program, which is overseen by the state government.
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The facts so far
As reported. Each one links to where it comes from.
- Centro is an invasive species in Tasmanian waters, munching away the state’s kelp forests.mongabay.com
- The state program offers financial incentives to support a commercial fishery for the urchins.mongabay.com
- The state allocated A$5.1 million spread over five years to the Abalone Industry Reinvestment Fund (AIRF).mongabay.com
- Since 2025, the state has continued to allocate the fund A$1 million per year, but only on a one-year basis.mongabay.com
Why it matters
The kelp forests are vital to Tasmania's ecosystem and economy. The loss of kelp has led to the decline of commercially lucrative species, such as blacklip abalone, which contributed A$46 million to the Tasmanian economy in the 2022-2023 financial year. The current urchin fishery is the main tool for managing Centro and preserving existing kelp forests.
The management of Centro requires significant investment from both state and federal governments. The uncertainty surrounding the state's long-term funding for the fishery makes processors reluctant to invest, and since the commercial fishery began in 2009, two major urchin processors have closed down.
What we don't know yet
- What is the Tasmanian Government's long-term plan for managing Centro beyond the current one-year funding cycles?
- How will the state government address the financial viability concerns of commercial divers operating under the subsidy program?
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Reporting
- mongabay.comOct 19
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