How Kelp Farming can Anchor Port Lincoln’s Next Economic Chapter

In South Australia’s premier aquaculture hub, a new industry is taking root beneath the waves. On the shoulders of decades of marine expertise in tuna, kingfish, oyster, and mussel farming, Port Lincoln is preparing to lead again.

This time in the regenerative, climate-positive world of kelp aquaculture.

At the centre of this bold initiative is Jo Lane, a leading marine biologist and Founder of Sea Health Products. With a Churchill Fellowship under her belt and over a decade of applied experience across global aquaculture systems, Jo is not just launching a new business. She is laying the foundation for a new industry cluster grounded in environmental renewal and economic resilience.

As advisors working closely with Jo on the strategic development of this vision, we have seen firsthand the depth of expertise and commitment she brings, and the excitement it has sparked across the region.

A Vision Shared by Many

Sea Health’s plan to establish a kelp hatchery and ocean farming network on the Lower Eyre Peninsula has struck a powerful chord. Backed by Port Lincoln City Council, RDA Eyre Peninsula, the Marine Bioproducts CRC, and other stakeholders, the initiative is already seeing early cultivation trials take place on existing marine leases.

This broad coalition of government, researchers, business, and community has already provided letters of support, committed time and resources, and helped lay the groundwork for what could become one of South Australia’s most celebrated examples of regional innovation. It is a clear sign that when community-led ideas align with public policy goals, transformation is possible.

Building on Strength

The Lower Eyre Peninsula already boasts world-class aquaculture infrastructure, supply chains, and technical know-how. Seaweed farming complements this foundation beautifully. Not only does it offer nutrient remediation benefits for nearby finfish operations, it also strengthens local branding in the global seafood and sustainability sectors.

According to Sea Health’s business plan, this project is expected to create 30 to 50 regional jobs in the next five years and play an important role in developing an industry with a scalable pathway to over $146 million in regional value creation.

Why It Matters

Seaweed farming presents a remarkable opportunity for regional South Australia. Not only in terms of environmental sustainability, but also in the potential it holds for community development and economic resilience. It enables climate-positive job creation, helping build a future-facing workforce rooted in green innovation. The industry also offers pathways for youth employment and skills training, particularly in marine science, aquaculture operations, and environmental stewardship. On an ecological level, kelp farming contributes significant environmental benefits, including carbon capture, improved water quality, and habitat restoration. Most importantly, it brings much-needed economic diversification to regional communities, strengthening their ability to adapt and thrive in uncertain times.

A Call for Continued Partnership

Port Lincoln is already well on its way to becoming a national and potentially global leader in regenerative ocean industries. This momentum has been made possible thanks to the meaningful contributions from government at all levels, who have engaged deeply, written in support, and committed time to shaping what is next.

At Regional Business Advisors, we are proud to support Sea Health Products, not just as a client, but as an inspiring example of the kind of leadership, science, and place-based innovation that can redefine regional economies.

Now, as Sea Health stands ready to scale, we invite continued government leadership to:

• Recognise kelp aquaculture as a strategic emerging industry
• Provide targeted support to help early-stage commercialisation succeed
• Celebrate and amplify the visionary leaders already making it happen

Let’s Grow Something Extraordinary

Jo Lane has shown us what it means to lead with courage, intelligence, and care for both community and country. The foundation is strong, the science is sound, and the partnerships are forming.

What is needed now is a shared commitment to take the next step together.

Because when regional Australians are given the opportunity and support to act on their vision, they do not just build businesses, they build industries that shape the future of their community.