Page Updated: 25 Jul 2025  3:20pm

To support the crisis response, a $28 million support package has been announced. Funded by the South Australian and Australian Governments, it will go towards research, clean-up efforts, community support, industry help, and public information.

Science & research

• Early detection and water testing through investing $8.5m in various technological options
• A new $2 million algae testing lab in SA (no longer sending samples overseas)
• Fish stock studies and citizen science projects to understand impact and assess recovery.
• A ‘Response Plan’ to be developed for future bloom events.

Community & cleanup

• Community Fund - $3m to support activities and small projects in affected communities.
• Beach clean-up funding - $1m for local government to assist cleaning up dead fish and marine life.

Business support

Grant applications are now open

• South Australian small businesses impacted by the algal bloom are eligible for grants of up to $10,000, while hardest hit commercial fisheries and aquaculture licence holders can apply for up to $100,000 in support.
• Small businesses will be able to apply for $10,000 grants if they can demonstrate a 30% decline in business turnover.
• Eligible businesses include: marine or coastal tourism operators, charter boat and fishing charter operators, marine-based sport and/or schools (e.g. surf school), commercial fisheries and aquaculture licence holders, seafood processors, marine/fishing supply chain manufacturers/retailers, coastal caravan parks, camping grounds and accommodation, and beachfront kiosks/cafes.
• Immediate payment of $25,000 for fisheries or aquaculture licence holders forced to close by authorities for more than one month or a 50% reduction in catch/harvest for a 3-month period since April.
• Businesses may be eligible for an additional payment of up to $75,000 where a 50% reduction in turnover can also be demonstrated. Payments will be tiered based on turnover.
• The SA Government will also waive fishing licensing fees for the September quarter, following the fees being waived for the June quarter.
• Financial counselling, mental health support and workforce advice to assist impacted small businesses to develop recovery and continuity plans, understand the short and long-term implications and help manage financial and mental wellbeing.
• Fee relief for affected licence holders and the $1,500 direct support payments are available to impacted primary producers.