First Nations Fishing in the NT
Getting established in commercial fishing is very expensive and requires expert technical and commercial knowledge, which means First Nations people are generally missing out on business opportunities and it’s harder to earn money and protect sea Country.
Country: Anindilyakwa, Tiwi, Groote Eylandt, Wadjiginy, Djerimanga, Larrakia
Sector(s): Fisheries and aquaculture
Creating jobs and keeping traditions strong
The Aboriginal Sea Company in the NT is acquiring fishing licenses and running a seafood business to help First Nations communities reconnect with the sea, create jobs, and keep cultural traditions strong.
Many First Nations communities can’t afford to buy fishing licenses, and lack the technical and commercial experience to operate seafood businesses which means they miss out on employment and leadership in the fishing sector.
The Aboriginal Sea Company, based in Darwin, is owned by three Northern Territory land councils. It was created to give First Nations communities access to fishing rights and benefit from their traditional waters.
A key function of the Aboriginal Sea Company is securing mud crab and barramundi fishing licenses for Indigenous fishers. The company also runs a seafood business and helps First Nations people start or grow their own fishing businesses by offering training, advice and support. They even run a ship supply store to support the industry.
The company also leads advocacy work. It hosts the Australian Sea Country Conference, where Indigenous fishers, scientists, and leaders come together to talk about protecting sea Country, sharing knowledge, and improving fishing opportunities for First Nations people.
What’s next?
The Aboriginal Sea Company plans to continue mixing traditional knowledge with modern business to build a strong future for First Nations fishers.