Australian abalone currently enjoys a relatively strong position in the market through steady demand for product. This will only continue as long as the resource is sustainable. Industry will benefit through the application of leading edge or state of the art technology and world's best practices in management, research and resource protection.

Presently no mechanism exists for effective interchange of ideas, or to consider leading edge technology, or to benefit from learning of the trials and tribulations other State's have experienced. This convention will present excellent opportunities for communications with contacts from all over the globe.

Other similar conferences, symposiums appear to focus more on the technical aspect of management and research with little or no input from industry for industry concerns. The notion for a national convention evolved when a number of abalone industry members met at the FishRights99 conference in Fremantle and the 4th International Abalone Symposium in Cape Town.

There is a need for all States to be involved in a national forum and for industry Australia wide to focus on management, marketing, R & D issues, resource protection and commence formulating national plans or strategies to focus on achieving the desired outcomes.