The NSW Government has announced today it will extend income and other support payments for commercial fishers in the Evans, Richmond and Clarence Rivers affected by the detection White Spot, with assistance of up to $1.34 million.

Income support for the Clarence River fishers, which was due to finish on 30 June 2025, will now be extended into the 2025/26 season and will include Evans and Richmond River prawn fishers.

This support is part of the $21.4 million package established by the Government in 2023 to deliver a biosecurity and industry support response to white spot detection.

Through this funding the Government has supported efforts to eradicate white spot from prawn farms, surveys of wild populations to pursue proof of freedom from the virus and a recovery package to support local farmers and fishers impacted by biosecurity responses of the virus. 

The latest package includes funding for mental health support, crown land and management fee waivers, and income support payments to affected prawn businesses for the next six months.

The package takes into account the annual closure of Clarence River prawn fisheries (until 1 August for the Estuary General Fishery, 1 October for Lake Wooloweyah and 1 December for the Clarence River).

The Government is also developing a framework to allow raw prawns from the affected areas to be supplied to consumers, under management arrangements in line with how imported prawns are controlled. 

Government biosecurity and fisheries experts are continuing to work closely with industry, seeking feedback on proposals and providing regular updates.

White spot poses no threat to human health, and NSW prawns remain safe for human consumption.

More information about White Spot can be found on the DPIRD website - https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/dpi/bfs/aquatic-biosecurity/aquaculture/prawns/white-spot

Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty said, “The NSW Government is committed to working closely with fishers and other agencies at State and Federal levels, with our priority being getting fishers back to work.

“Just as the Minns Government provided a support package for devastated prawn farmers and fishers in the Clarence after the White Spot detection in 2023, we are once again stepping up to also support affected fishers from the Evans and Richmond Rivers.

“This investment acknowledges the struggles of fishers from northern NSW and supports these businesses to continue their contribution to a region known for its high-quality seafood.

“Consumers are assured that White Spot does not pose a threat to human health or food safety and NSW seafood, including prawns, remains safe to eat and of the highest quality.”