WRL commissioned a concept study to examine the strategic case for the Institute. The study also provided a detailed assessment of the State Government’s current return on investment from the financial contributions made via the resource.

WRL has engaged with many stakeholders, ranging from its members, fishers and processors to other Australian Spiny Lobster associations as well as State and Federal Government. The institute concept study report has been well received by members and stakeholders who have been positive about the concept and interested in receiving further information. There is general consensus that the institute be a WA based institute for spiny lobster research and focussed only on western rock lobster. The institute can then consider and work towards submitting a SRC bid to join with UTAS and SARDI to formalise national research with other entities. The institute can by provide a mechanism to collaborate on a project by project basis with other organisations such as Southern Rock Lobster (SRL) which SRL are supportive of.

Overall, and based on extensive consultation, there is general support for WRL moving to the next stage of documentation including a comprehensive business plan.

In order to present a ‘bankable’ case for the proposed Wa based Institute for Spiny (Rock) Lobster Research (‘Proposed Institute’), a business plan including the following key studies are required:
• Research Priorities Plan
• Business Case
• Governance Framework
• Investment Proposal

All are necessary to underpin optimal likelihood of successful establishment of the Proposed Institute and its sustainable operation.