Before new rules come into effect on 1 July 2026, a 12-month transition period has commenced for the introduction of mandatory labelling for seafood products in hospitality venues.
Allowing businesses to adjust in a timely manner, the transition period provides an opportunity to begin applying country-of-origin seafood labelling to menus as soon as possible.
“Australia’s seafood industry provides significant value both as a job creator and economic driver in regional Australia,” said minister for agriculture, fisheries forestry Julie Collins.
“I’ve been a proud supporter of mandatory labelling for seafood products because I know it will help support Australia’s seafood industry.”
The new labelling approach was approved following extensive consultation with the public and industry, and with federal, state and territory consumer affairs ministers in November 2023.
Hospitality businesses must label the country of origin for all seafood dishes using the Australian–Imported–Mixed (AIM) model. The AIM model is designed to strike a balance between informing consumers and minimising costs to businesses.
“Australian seafood is world renowned for its high quality and sustainable practices, but more than 60% of seafood bought by Australians is imported,” said minister for industry and innovation Tim Ayres.
“I encourage businesses to use this 12-month transition period to adjust to the new measures and find what works best for them and their customers.”