The finfish research facility and commercial aquaculture farm are presently positioned about three kilometres offshore in Providence Bay, however, the partners want to relocate the project nine kilometres offshore. 

The project is designed to alleviate the growing global demand for seafood. About 85 per cent of fish bought in NSW is presently imported.

Supporters say the project will alleviate pressure on wild fish stocks, help the development of a sustainable aquaculture industry and create jobs.

However, opponents fear the project will produce excess levels of effluent and chemicals, which may affect whales and transitory dolphins. There are also concerns the farm may increase shark activity in the area. 

The Department of Primary Industries has previously said only disease-free fish will be stocked in the cages and chemical use would be kept to a minimum. Hormones may be used in the hatchery but will not be used on caged fish.

Plans presently on public exhibition also seek to increase the size of fish cages from 80-120 metres in circumference to 168 metres at each of the two leases, increase the number of cages from between eight and ten to 12 cages at each of the two leases, increase the size of the development from 20 to 30 hectares to 62 hectares at each of the two leases, install permanent feed barges at each site and, increase the total production of fish from 1,996 tonnes to 2,400 tonnes per annum.  

“Community consultation is an integral part of the planning process and the applicants will have to respond to the feedback we receive,” a Department of Planning spokesman said.

“This feedback is taken into consideration when we develop our recommendations.” 

“It’s easy to participate by going online and we encourage everyone to take a look and have their say.”