Aquaculture health and biosecurity are complex multidisciplinary areas that require specialized human resource development (van Beek 1997). There is a wealth of lessons to be learnt from more established aquaculture industries. As each industry is unique in fish species farmed and local environmental issues, there is a need to process information into a practical biosecurity plan.

The Western Australian aquaculture industry is regionalized, with large distances between centres of activity. Ready access to veterinarians with expertise in fish and shellfish is rare, often resulting in heavy losses. There is a need to
increase/consolidate knowledge amongst fish farm managers & operational staff in aquaculture health. Involving local veterinarians will improve access to fish health services. The workshops will create greater networking allowing fish farm managers and their local veterinarians the small pool of veterinarians within Fisheries and Universities with experience in fish and shellfish health

The above need is consistent with WA industry's RDE priorities, FRDC's environmental program theme 1