2008/799 Marine biotoxin diagnostic capability and capacity in Australia: A business review and implementation plan

By Ewan Colquhoun

This study called for a review of Australia’s expertise in marine biotoxins, based around three objectives: to identify and cost potential methods of improving biotoxin expertise in Australia, to develop a business case for establishing robust biotoxin diagnostic capability and capacity that meets both the industry and regulatory needs, now and into the future, and if the business case is proven to develop an Implementation Plan in conjunction with a commercial providers that will establish a clear path to the development of capability and capacity in this area.

The consulting team worked with an industry Steering Committee to identify stakeholders - fishers and aquaculturists, supply chain participants and traders, test providers, researchers, overseas experts, and regulators in the 8 Australian jurisdictions. Three comprehensive electronic surveys were released across key sectors - abalone, cockles, coral trout, kingfish, mussels, oysters, pipis, mackerel, and other minor susceptible species. Five recommendations were then put forward by the author.