Science-Backed Strategy To Rebuild Saucer Scallop Stocks

The Government has unveiled a five-year, science-backed plan to restore Queensland’s depleted saucer scallop stocks, with a strong focus on protecting the iconic Hinchinbrook Channel and securing the long-term future of the fishery.

The strategy follows the 2025 saucer scallop survey, conducted jointly by industry and the Department of Primary Industries, which revealed the fragile state of the Queensland fishery, with biomass in some regions falling below 20 per cent of unfished levels. The survey also highlighted Hinchinbrook Channel as a designated scallop replenishment area, where strict regulations are in place to protect vulnerable stocks.

Under the new approach, commercial scallop fishing is recommended to resume in some east coast otter trawl fishery regions, including the central and southern offshore areas, using adaptive management to balance commercial opportunity with sustainability. Meanwhile, the southern inshore region and the Hinchinbrook Channel remain closed to harvesting, reflecting their vulnerable status.

The strategy also sets Total Allowable Commercial Catches (TACC) of 167,776 kilograms for the central region and 248,609 kilograms for the southern offshore region for the 2026 season, while reinforcing regulations in Hinchinbrook waters to ensure the protection of saucer scallops and other sensitive marine species.

Public consultation undertaken in late 2025 received feedback from commercial and recreational fishers, seafood businesses, environmental groups, and local councils, helping shape the final recommendations.

Residents and fishers are encouraged to stay informed about the latest regulations in the Hinchinbrook Channel and surrounding scallop fisheries, with details available through the Department of Primary Industries.