The objective for this project is to design and pilot an M&E framework and toolkit for fisheries and aquaculture community engagement. The M&E Framework support a more systematic approach to industry evaluation and generate useful information to support industry decision-making by clearly articulating priority outcomes. While the evaluation toolkit will provide industry organisations with practical resources for planning, conducting and learning from the evaluation of community engagement processes

The Australian Seafood Industry operates in a diverse and dynamic environment and although the volume produced in Australia is small by world standards, the value and quality of our product and sustainability of our practices are globally recognised. For the Seafood Industry to continue to be a world leader in seafood production and quality there must be an opportunity to learn from each other and plan for the future. We must also use the event as an opportunity to generate media interest and recognition for the broader seafood industry.

The role of Seafood Directions is to provide a significant opportunity for fishers, managers, researchers, industry representatives and others who work in support of the industry, to examine key contemporary and strategic issues and develop blueprints that will ensure a sustainable, profitable and socially resilient seafood industry in Australia.

The need for Seafood Directions is indicated by the ongoing support of key stakeholders of the seafood industry, as is evident by the level of industry sponsorship and attendance at the conference. We know Australians love seafood, and therefore using the conference to 'showcase' the amazing people and products of the seafood industry will be an important addition to the 2019 conference.