Oyster farming is the oldest and most valuable aquaculture industry in NSW, providing a farm gate value of more than $40 million each year, and boosting the economy through employment, tourism and improved environmental outcomes.

There are over 2400 aquaculture leases in NSW, producing 106 million oysters annually. Commercial production occurs in 32 estuaries between Eden and Tweed River, covering an area of about 2900 hectares.

The Sapphire Coast is one of the most significant oyster-producing regions in Australia, with millions harvested in our waters each year.

Oyster production on the Sapphire Coast directly employs over 100 people in small businesses, directly contributing $16 million to the Sapphire Coast economy and indirectly making a vital contribution to the region's tourism economy.