Leaders from WA’s fishing, energy, engineering, research, tourism and conservation sectors will come together in Fremantle on 8 December 2022 to plot a course for the future of WA’s blue economy.
The State of the Blue Economy Forum, now in its third year, discusses opportunities and challenges affecting the ocean and related organisations.
The forum brings together leaders representing $25 billion in gross state product and 60,000 people directly employed by these industries.
On current estimates and growth rates, the blue economy’s contribution to the economy and employment could double by 2030.
Aligning that growth with an associated increase in ocean health is the shared aspiration of many of the leaders across marine industries.
For Blue Managing Director and convenor of the State of the Blue Economy Forum, Andrew Outhwaite, said this year’s event came at a crucial time for the blue economy in the State.
“Western Australians love the ocean, and an increasing number depend on it to make a
living,” Mr Outhwaite said.
“This past three years we’ve seen steep increase in investment in emerging industries such as offshore renewable energy, seaweed aquaculture, marine tourism and subsea technologies.
“However, leaders across all those sectors are also seeing the similar risks, barriers and challenges. To ensure ocean industries and our ocean are both healthy, we need an aligned approach on how industry and government plan, legislate and invest.
“There is no other sector with as much potential, that’s aligned with West Australian’s
values, and where we have such an internationally-recognised advantage. We are at a crucial moment.”
Fremantle Mayor Hannah Fitzhardinge said the city was delighted to again be hosting the State of the Blue Economy Forum.
“Throughout our history as a proud harbour town, the ocean and marine industries have been
central to both Fremantle’s economy and identity,” Mayor Fitzhardinge said.
“Marine-based industries currently support around 1400 jobs within the City of Fremantle, and we’re excited about the possibilities for growth in the emerging blue economy.
“Fremantle has the assets, capability and vision to become the leading hub for marine technology and innovation in the Indian Ocean region.”
Key speakers and panellists include:
This event is made possible by For Blue, the City of Fremantle, the Department of Jobs, Tourism, Science, and Innovation and is a part of West Tech Fest 2022.
Tickets are available via Humanitix.