Tasmanian Salmon Industry Faces Largest-Ever Fish Kill and Animal Welfare Investigations

Over 5,500 tonnes of salmon deaths linked to warmer waters and bacterial disease prompt environmental and animal welfare scrutiny.

Tasmania's Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) reports over 5,500 tonnes of salmon deaths in February, representing 6% of the state's annual production.
The mass mortality event is attributed to warmer water temperatures and an endemic bacterial disease, with ongoing investigations into its environmental impact.
Drone footage shows Huon Aquaculture workers placing live salmon into bins with dead fish, sparking concerns about animal welfare and potential loss of RSPCA certification.
Environmental groups criticize the salmon farming industry for poor management practices, while Premier Jeremy Rockliff demands greater accountability and transparency from companies.
Salmon chunks and oily residues have washed up on Tasmanian beaches, with the EPA conducting shoreline inspections and urging public reports of pollution.